where to travel central america

The Best Places to Visit in Central America

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Central America is a great place to visit. With seven countries to choose from—each packed with stunning natural and cultural attractions—it can be hard to decide where to go. Luckily, we've compiled the top Central America travel destinations for you to explore. 

To give you just a little more help, you'll want to explore ways to take in as much of Central America as possible in just two weeks. Also, backpacking is a great way to get around on a seriously tight budget.

Beaches and Islands

Although there is no end to Central America’s attractions, most travelers make a beeline straight to the best beaches and islands.

Due to the isthmus' warm waters, flourishing marine life, and soft sands spanning two diverse coastlines, the epicenter of the Central America tourism industry is along the edges. From rollicking Pacific shores to outlying Caribbean isles , the beaches of Central America are truly unbeatable.

Costa Rica is the most popular destination in Central America for a reason. Though small in size, the country contains 5 percent of the world's biodiversity. For travelers, that means countless pristine beaches , tumbling jungles, and abundant flora and fauna.

To top it all off, Costa Rica boasts an amicable society founded upon kicking back and enjoying the scenery. It's everything you need for a great vacation.

Nicaragua is off the beaten path for the typical traveler, and yet it contains some of the world's most captivating scenery.

Home to the second largest rainforest in the Americas and the largest freshwater volcanic island in the world, Nicaragua's land mass holds 7 percent of the earth's biodiversity. After years of unrest, Nicaragua is emerging as the new Costa Rica at a fraction of the expense.

Although Belize is docked upon Central America's mainland, it’s an island of diversity. The country’s tiny fingernail of land is a natural and cultural wonderland, a thriving swirl of jungles, rivers, and beaches peopled by Mayans and the Garifuna.

Yet, travelers spend much of their time off the coast among Belize's brilliant waters, far-flung cayes, and the second largest barrier reef in the world. 

Guatemala is truly one-of-a-kind, a country of impossible vistas and staggering beauty. Over 40 percent of its population is of Mayan descent, the majority of which still don multicolored indigenous apparel.

Travelers are enchanted by Guatemala's gracious and fascinating culture, as well as the towering volcanoes, forested mountains, and Mayan ruins of unsurpassed quality. It is a central component in the popular La Ruta Maya , a popular travel plan that stretches from Mexico to Guatemala City.

El Salvador

El Salvador , though one of the world's smaller countries, holds numerous elements found in the rest of the Central American region, it's just in miniature form.

Many travelers claim that the country's ancient Mayan sites, volcanoes, jungles, and beaches rival those of its neighbors. At the same time, the hospitality of its people is unmatched anywhere in the world. And, because of its size, every attraction is easily accessible.

Though Honduras has a history of conflict, more travelers are discovering the country's abundant attractions. Drawing the most visitors are the Caribbean Bay Islands, Utila, Roatan, and Guanaja , each boasting some of the cheapest and best scuba diving in the world.

Honduras is also home to the captivating Mayan ruins at Copan . It has both a stunning natural landscape and a welcoming population.

Panama's location alone is intriguing. It literally serves as a land bridge between North and South America.

The country’s natural attractions are equally intriguing, from its virgin white sand beaches to its impenetrable rainforest. While the Panama Canal  is not natural, it does top every traveler’s itinerary because it's an astonishing manifestation of human ingenuity. 

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Central America Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 30, 2023

Surrounded by the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, the slender land bridge of Central America runs from Mexico to South America and is made up of seven countries: Guatemala , Belize , El Salvador , Honduras , Nicaragua , Costa Rica , and Panama .

Political and civil unrest in the 1980s kept most tourists away for decades (people never forget bad news), but now the area is becoming hotspot for travelers, surfers, luxury travelers, and even retirees.

Because Central America is beautiful, filled with history, affordable, and much safer than it used to be.

While there are still regions where you need to be vigilant, people have realized that it’s not the place the media makes it out to be. The region’s rainforests are filled with unexplored Mayan ruins and wildlife, its beaches are great for surfing, its reefs offer world-class diving, there’s a huge variety of flora and fauna here, and the cheap accommodation, food, and transport throughout the region make it a budget traveler’s dream.

I’m glad the collective consciousness is shifting and people are finally recognizing how amazing this area. I began my nomadic life traveling around Central America and whenever I return, I fall in love even more with the friendliness of the people, the tasty food, the weather, the history, and the beauty.

This travel guide to Central America will give you all the tips to help you plan your trip, stay safe, and save money in this underrated region of the world.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Central America

Click Here for Country Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in central america.

1. Explore the volcanoes

This region is rich in volcanoes — both active and inactive. You can hike, take a horse up, and even roast marshmallows at Pacaya (Guatemala), known for frequently erupting in ash clouds. Poás (Costa Rica) is famous for its green volcano crater lake, Arenal has hiking trails, geothermal springs, a gorgeous rainforest area with waterfalls, ziplining tours and a plethora of wildlife. Masaya in Nicaragua is well known for its spectacular crater lava lake that you can visit at night to truly see the bubbling lava (coined ‘La Boca de Infierno’ (or ‘Mouth of Hell’). For adventure seekers, don’t miss trying some adrenaline-inducing sandboarding down Cerro Negro volcano in Nicaragua.

2. See Mayan ruins

Central America has many ruin sites. Tikal, in Guatemala, is an enormous national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site with centuries of Mayan history and archeology covered in lush vegetation and rare tropical wildlife. Copán in Honduras dates back to the 5th century and boasts intricate stelae, tunnels, a hieroglyphic stairway, and lush tropical vegetation filled with monkeys, sloths, parrots, and macaws. Meanwhile, Xunantunich is one of Belize’s most impressive and easily accessible Maya sites known for its scenic location in the middle of the jungle. Last but not least, San Andrés archeological site in El Salvador is the largest pre-hispanic ruins site in the country and includes pyramids and ancient plazas. The intricate wall carvings, imposing pyramids, and crumbling columns should not be missed. Prices vary but expect to spend around $20 USD for admission.

3. Relax on Caye Caulker, Belize

This little island is incredibly popular with backpackers. It’s less expensive than some of the larger islands in the country and has a relaxed atmosphere to it. There is something here for everyone and there is way more to do here than just lay out on the exquisite beaches (although this is definitely a place you could chill for a few days). However, it’s also a spectacular place to see the delicate ecosystems of Caye Caulker Forest Reserve, which is filled with rare tropical plants and marine life. Caye Caulker is also a great place to snorkel with nurse sharks, dive the Belize Barrier Reef or the Great Blue Hole, swim with gentle manatees, or just kayak around “The Split” in paradise. July is a great time to go because of their famous lobster festival, offering tasty lobster as well as lively beach parties.

4. See the Panama Canal

First opened in 1914, the Panama Canal is an 80-kilometer (50-mile) marvel of human labor and engineering. 13,000-14,000 ships cross between the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean every single year thanks to the canal (nearly a million boats have crossed since its construction). The canal raises ships an impressive 27 meters (85 feet) using a complex lock system, so it takes 8-10 hours for each boat to cross. The Canal relies on three sets of locks: Miraflores and Pedro Miguel Locks on the Pacific side and Gatun Locks on the Caribbean side. The most common place to see the canal is at Miraflores Locks in Panama. Admission is $20 USD.

5. Trek through the rainforests

Much of Central America is covered in lush and humid rainforests. A popular way to see these is to take a canopy tour, where you’ll be suspended on a zip-line and glide over the tops of the trees. The rainforests are filled with howler monkeys, jaguars, lizards, tropical birds, and so much more. Check out Costa Rica’s Volcán Arenal or La Fortuna Zip lines for breathtaking scenic views. Or Guatemala’s Atitlán canopy tours, where you can zip right over the stunning blue lake below. Honduras’s remote paradise Roatán Island offers incredible zip line views of its perfect crystal coast before sunning on the beach too. Expect to pay $40-65 USD.

Other Things to See and Do in Central America

1. head to antigua.

Considered one of the best-preserved colonial cities, Antigua (in Guatemala ) is a major travel hotspot for backpackers. Wander around the Spanish-style cobbled streets and visit the ruins of San Francisco Church. Don’t miss the opportunity to hike up to the 3,976-meter-high (13,000-foot) summit of one of the most active volcanoes in the world, “Volcan Fuego” (which is nearby). You can also head to Acatenango (another nearby volcano) if you’d rather see a volcano spit smoke and fire. Plus, there are tons of pubs, restaurants, coffee shops, hostels, and even Spanish language schools here if you want a reason to stay longer!

2. Go diving

The shores around Central America are home to many coral reefs. As such, diving is hugely popular. The colors and variety of fish will amaze you, as will the clear visibility. Diving here is cheaper than in the Caribbean and most parts of Mexico . Popular dive countries include Panama, Honduras, and Belize. Expect to pay $50-100 USD for a two-tank dive, or a few hundred dollars for your certification course.

3. Tour coffee plantations

This entire region is known for its coffee, particularly Costa Rica and Panama. Tour the plantations and see how the beans are grown, picked, and ground. You can also buy fresh coffee at heavily discounted prices (it’s a great souvenir). I found the best coffee to be from Monteverde, Costa Rica — and I don’t even like coffee! But I drank it and loved it (it tasted like chocolate!).

4. Visit Chichicastenango

Most people who come to Guatemala visit Chichicastenango , the largest indigenous market in Central America. Stalls sell handicrafts, blankets, pottery, souvenirs, and more. It’s the best place to find local food for cheap and take in the hustle and bustle of local life.

5. Tour the museums

Most cities in Central America are filled with museums, particularly those paying homage to the Mayan civilization. The Pre-Columbian Gold Museum in San José, Costa Rica is fascinating, with over 1,000 different gold objects such as animal figures, and jewelry, as well as a scale model of a Pre-Columbian village. For Mayan artifacts, head to the Copán Archaeology Museum in Honduras ($3 USD).

6. Sail the San Blas Islands

This archipelago in Panama consists of 378 islands and cays to explore. Taking a day, or even a week-long sailing trip throughout them is super fun. There are incredible seascapes to behold, as well as fascinating people to meet and colorful reefs to see up close. There is an abundance of wildlife to check out and the boats make frequent snorkeling and scuba diving stops. These trips are popular with budget travelers and can be organized anywhere in the country. You can do a day trip to three of the islands for $90 USD but expect to spend upwards of $600 USD for a 4-5-day cruise. It’s not super cheap, but it’s worth it!

7. Surf down a volcano in Nicaragua

If you like adrenaline activities, try volcano boarding. Cerro Negro, a young and active volcano in Nicaragua, offers tourists a chance to ride a surfboard down its graveled slopes. You have to hike up to the top yourself (which takes around an hour) so be prepared for a climb and to get dirty! A full-day excursion costs $45-50 USD, with transportation, gear, and drinks included.

8. Dive the Great Blue Hole

This natural wonder in Belize is part of the Lighthouse Reef system. It’s a near-perfect circular hole that stretches 146 meters (480 feet) below the surface. The water here is almost completely motionless, so visibility is clear to about 60 meters (200 feet). The Great Blue Hole is an amazing place to dive or snorkel and is considered one of the best natural dive spots in the world! Tour prices vary, but snorkeling tours cost around $220 USD, and diving tours start at $240 USD. A half-day tour with two dives starts from $130 USD. The trips to the Blue Hole are full-day, 3-tank tours and start from $300 USD.

9. Walk through the Treetops

The Rainmaker Aerial Walkway in Costa Rica was the first aerial walkway to be built in Central America and it’s still considered one of the top aerial walkways in the region. At the highest point on the walkway, you’ll find yourself 20 stories above the ground. Tours start at $75 USD and include two light meals. There is also a night tour that lasts three hours and costs $60 USD.

10. Visit the Macaw Mountain Bird Reserve & Park

Located in Copán Ruinas, Honduras, this enclosure is in a tropical rainforest brimming with an amazing range of birds. You’ll see everything from brilliant Buffon Macaws to vibrant Blue and Gold Macaws to colorful Keel-Billed Toucans. Included in the ticket price is a three-day access pass to the park, a one-hour guided tour, and a 20-minute walk through an adjacent coffee plantation. Admission is $10 USD.

11. Admire the Belize Barrier Reef

This is the second-longest barrier reef in the world. It’s home to a vibrant coral reef and magnificent marine life (including sea turtles, rays, and sharks) and is the country’s most popular tourist attraction. In 1996, the reef was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it’s now a popular spot for diving, snorkeling, and boat tours. A three-tank dive costs around $115-125 USD.

12. Go to Ometepe Island, Nicaragua

Located on Nicaragua Lake, this is the largest volcanic island in the world that resides inside a freshwater lake. It’s easy to get to and is close to Managua. There are a plethora of restaurants and hotels on the island. Be sure to check out Cascada San Ramon, a waterfall you can access via a beautiful four-hour hike. Also, don’t miss El Pital where you can learn how chocolate is made (tours are $15 USD).

13. Take in the Nicoya Coast, Costa Rica

This is a beautiful peninsula in Costa Rica peppered with quaint little towns and plenty of beaches. It is constantly sunny here, and there’s a lot to see and do. Some of the main attractions include Barra Honda National Park, Isla Tortuga, scuba diving, and driving along the coast. My favorite town in this area is Santa Teresa.

14. Visit La Libertad, El Salvador

For those of you who are big on surfing, this is considered the best place to catch a wave in Central America. While there is the risk of bumping into a swarm of beach-bum types, it doesn’t take away from the amazing waves, the endless seafood barbecue, and cool accommodation. Surfboard rentals start at $15-25 USD.

15. Enjoy Carnival

The biggest carnival in the region is La Ceiba in Honduras. Held every May, the streets fill with bright costumes and dancing, while bars and clubs burst with locals and tourists alike, all vying to soak up the party atmosphere. Different neighborhoods host “Carnavalitos” (little carnivals), competing on who can throw the best party.

16. Visit the Montecristo Cloud Forest

This cloud forest has a diverse swath of flora and fauna including ferns, orchids, mosses, spider monkeys, and anteaters. Hike to the highest point, El Trifinio, where the borders of El Salvador, Honduras, and Guatemala converge. It’s a steep 7-kilometer (4-mile) climb, so bring lots of water. There’s a limit to how many people can visit the park each day so it’s best to arrive bright and early and finish before the park closes at 3pm.

17. Dive the Bay Islands in Honduras

The Bay Islands are one of the best diving spots in Central America. The Roatan, Utila, and Guanaja archipelagos all offer stunning dive sites. Get up close to colorful coral formations or deep dive 600 meters (2,000) feet into the abyss for bluntnose sixgill shark sightings. It’s also super affordable; prices start at $35-40 USD.

Be sure to visit our Central America country travel guides for more detailed information about what to see and do in each destination:

• Belize Travel Guide
• Costa Rica Travel Guide
• El Salvador Travel Guide
• Guatemala Travel Guide
• Honduras Travel Guide
• Nicaragua Travel Guide
• Panama Travel Guide

Central America Travel Costs

Accommodation – Hostel dorms with 6-8 beds cost $8-20 USD per night while private hostel rooms cost $15-30 USD for a single or double bed with private bathroom (in Belize, Costa Rica or Panama, you will pay on the higher end of that range).

Family-owned guesthouses or hotels are the next most affordable accommodation. These rooms average $25-40 USD per night for a private room with an ensuite bathroom. Many include breakfast, not to mention the added bonus of meeting a local.

In cheaper countries like Honduras, a private room can cost $15 USD per night while in a more expensive destination like Panama City, you can expect to pay on the higher end, about $40-50 USD per night.

Airbnb is also an option around Central America, with private rooms starting at around $30 USD per night. For an entire home or apartment expect to pay at least $70 USD per night (though prices are often double that).

Camping can be done easily at some hostels and in certain national parks. Many hostels have spaces where you can pitch a tent or string up a hammock for under $10 USD per night. National parks require camping fees that vary from country to country. See country guides for specifics on where to stay.

Generally, I’d avoid wild camping in this region (even where it is legal it is not advised due to crime, the heat, and wildlife).

Food – While the cuisine for each country in Central America varies, there is some overlap. Expect to find dishes centered around rice, beans, tortillas, meat, and seafood. Generally, you’ll find a mix of Spanish, Caribbean, and traditional Mesoamerican influences here. Fresh fruit is also huge, including favorites like bananas, plantain, mangoes, papaya, and more.

The cheapest food option is to eat at the roadside restaurants that dot the region. Buying your own groceries and cooking is also super affordable, though not all hostels have kitchen facilities.

At small restaurants serving regional cuisine, expect to pay around $5 USD for a meal. If you want really cheap food, you can find empanadas (fried pastries filled with meat, cheese, or potatoes) for under a dollar.

If you plan on cooking your own meals, head down to the local market and pick up fruit, vegetables, rice, and some meat or seafood for $20-40 USD per week depending on your diet.

The local markets have tons of fresh fruit for incredibly cheap, so fill up on that when you can. A typical restaurant meal per main dish and a drink is about $10 USD, however, western food costs about three times as much as local dishes — so skip it!

See each destination’s guide for more info and prices.

Backpacking Central America Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget of $30-55 USD per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm, eat some local street food, cook most of your meals, visit a few attractions (like museums and national parks), do some free walking tours, and take local transportation to get around. If you plan on drinking, you’ll need to add a few extra dollars to your daily budget.

On a mid-range budget of $75-150 USD per day, you can stay in a private hostel or Airbnb, eat out more, enjoy a few drinks, visit some historical sites and do some tours, and take coach buses and the occasional taxi to get around.

On a “luxury” budget of $180-290 USD per day, you can stay in a hotel, drink as much as you’d like, eat out for all your meals (including at Western restaurants), take private tours, rent a car for day trips, go diving, and even take the occasional flight. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

Note that if you visit Costa Rica and Panama (the region’s two most expensive countries), you’ll spend on the higher end of these ranges (and above).

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in USD.

Central America Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

While our country guides have more specific ways to save (every country in the region is very different), here are five general rules for saving money in Central America:

• Visit the markets – Although eating out is cheap in Central America, it makes sense to shop at the markets for your food to take on day trips or to prepare at your hostel. Fruit is super cheap!
• Hitchhike – Hitchhiking is one of the most popular ways to get around the region and used extensively by locals. You’ll find people regularly willing to pick up people and give them a lift. Just be sure to use common sense as some regions should not be traveled by hitchhiking.
• Eat on the side of the road – The local eateries at the side of the road will be the cheapest food you can eat, costing just a couple of dollars per meal.
• Avoid flying – Bus rides are longer, but if you are trying to see this region on a budget you shouldn’t fly. Flights are 5-10 times more expensive than the bus! An hour-long flight can cost hundreds of dollars. Avoid flying as much as possible!

Where to Stay in Central America

Each country guide has lots of suggested places to stay but here are some of my top top places to stay in the region:

• The Red Hut Inn (Belize City)
• Sophie’s Guest Rooms (Caye Caulker)
• Dirty McNasty (Caye Caulker)
• D’s Hostel (San Ignacio)
• Maya Papaya (Antigua)
• La Iguana Perdida (Santa Cruz, Lake Atitlan)
• Casa de Grethel (Flores)
• Hostal Los Lagos (Guatemala City)

El Salvador

• Hostal Cumbres del Volcan Flor Blanca (San Salvador)
• Hostel Casa Verde (Santa Ana)
• Roatan Backpackers Hostel (Roatan)
• Palmira Hostel (Tegucigalpa)
• Iguana Azul (Copan Ruinas)
• De Boca en Boca (Granada)
• Bigfoot Hostel & Volcano Boarding (Leon)
• Managua Backpackers Inn (Managua)
• Hostel Life is Good (Ometepe Island)
• Rocking J’s (Puerto Viejo)
• Costa Rica Backpackers (San Jose)
• Pura Natura Lodge Manuel Antonio (Manuel Antonio)
• Camino Verde B&B (Monteverde)
• Hostal Casa Areka (Panama City)
• Magnolia Inn Casco Viejo (Panama City)
• El Machio (Panama City)
• Bambuda Castle (Boquete)
• Bambuda Lodge (Bocas del Toro)

How to Get Around Central America

Public transportation – Public buses are the most common (and cheapest) way to get around, with fares costing less than a dollar. These buses are often referred to as “chicken buses” because of the number of chickens and rice that is transported on them. They stop just about everywhere to let people hop on and off, and you’ll be crammed in tight with locals. They’re slow, but cheap.

Taxi – Taxis are common and affordable, but not all of them have meters. Be sure to check before you get into the taxi and if there’s no meter, negotiate a fare upfront.

On the higher end, taxi fares start at about $2 USD in Panama City and then they charge $2 USD per kilometer. In San Jose, Costa Rica, rates start at around $1 USD and then are $1.11 USD per kilometer.

Always ask your hotel/hostel staff how much your ride should be so you know in advance. When in doubt, have them call a taxi for you as well so you know you won’t get ripped off.

Bus – Longer bus rides and overnight buses between countries usually cost between $10-30 USD. They’re not always overly comfortable, but they usually have air-conditioning and some night buses have reclining seats.

Shuttle buses are a popular way to get travelers around the backpacking trail. All you need to do is show up at a travel agency (they’re everywhere) and negotiate a price and route. Make sure you’re clear about where the bus is picking you up — it’s not always a bus station. In some cases, you can just show up and pay the driver onboard.

Larger international buses also run between the larger cities and tend to have their own bus terminals. Some services include Tica Bus, Central Line, and Expreso Panama.

On Tica Bus, for example, you can get from Panama all the way to Guatemala. From Panama to Costa Rica is about $55 USD, and the price increases the further you go. These buses are more comfortable, but the smaller minibusses arranged through an agency tend to be cheaper.

Train – Trains are non-existent in this region. Stick to buses.

Flying – Flying between cities and countries is expensive and routes are limited. A flight from Guatemala City to Belize City can cost upwards of $240 USD while a one-way flight from Belize to Panama is over $375 USD! I would avoid this method of travel unless you are very pressed for time and have lots of money to burn.

Car rental – Roads and driving conditions vary widely here. Overall, you’ll want to be an experienced driver here if you are going to rent a car. Rentals cost around $15-35 USD per day for a multi-day rental. For the best car rental prices, use Discover Cars .

When to Go to Central America

The weather in Central America varies drastically depending on where you are thanks to its many distinct microclimates from coast to coast (and with the altitude in the mountainous areas). The dry season is from December to April, which is generally considered the best time to visit. This is also when most people visit so you can expect more crowds and inflated prices.

The rainy season is from April to December, with hurricane season being at its peak in September and October (especially on the Caribbean side). Having said that, the rainy season isn’t a bad time to visit. Mostly you’ll find periods of heavy rainfall, but plenty of nice weather otherwise. Humidity can be high, and mosquitos and tropical storms can be a nuisance.

In the mountains, temperatures can drop as low as 10°C (50°F). In the hottest places, it’ll soar into the high 30s°C (80s°F). Refer to our country-specific guides to get a better breakdown of temperatures and climates!

How to Stay Safe in Central America

While Central America is generally safe for traveling and backpacking, there’s no denying that certain precautions should be taken. There are certain parts of Honduras, El Salvador, and Guatemala that are currently best to avoid completely and theft and pick-pocketing is common in most cities around the region.

Additionally, there are lots of places you don’t want to go out at night (especially in big cities).

You can find the current situation for each country in their destination guide but here are some general rules for staying safe in Central America:

• Avoid isolated areas, especially at night and in big cities.
• Avoid night buses, where robberies are common, unless your hotel/hostel staff say otherwise.
• Avoid taking drugs here. Penalties are stiff.
• Be aware of your surroundings at all times.
• Keep your personal belongings on you while using public transit (especially chicken buses).
• Take taxis at night in foreign cities (ideally with other travelers).
• Don’t wear flashy items or start flashing your phone around (especially at night).

Overall, violent attacks against tourists are rare. Petty theft is common here and you must be extremely vigilant to make sure you don’t get robbed — especially when on public transportation or in large crowds.

Don’t carry lots of cash on you and avoid flashing expensive gear. When you go out, only take as much money as you need.

Keep an eye out for common scams against tourists , such as fake ATMs, taxis that don’t use a meter, and questionable tour operators.

For more in-depth coverage of how to stay safe in Central America, check out this post we wrote that answers some frequently asked questions and concerns.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past.

Central America Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Central America Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Central America travel and continue planning your trip:

Do You Need Travel Insurance for Costa Rica?

The Best Tour Companies in Costa Rica

The 6 Best Hostels in Panama City, Panama

Is Belize Safe to Visit?

Is Central America Safe to Visit?

How to Get Around Central America on a Budget

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Home » Central America » Backpacking Travel Guide

Backpacking Central America • TOP TIPS, Itineraries + Costs 2024

Backpacking in Central America was the best decision of my life . My experiences here moulded me into the man I have become today, and I’m now OBSESSED with inspiring others to visit this magnificent region.

Central America is an enchanting amalgamation of jungles, surf beaches, (tequila), and volcanoes. This part of the world attracts a certain kind of vagrant and broke backpacker – so you’re sure to fit right in. 😉

After exploring for months on end here, I now kinda consider this part of the world to be my second home. You won’t have to spend long here to feel the same, trust me.

There’s something so magical about these lands and the endless array of surprises and opportunities they possess…

Part of it is the unrivalled beauty of the jungles, mountains, volcanos, desert islands and beaches. Part of it is all the relaxing and inward soul searching. But truly, it’s the kindness and open-heartedness of the people that make you fall in love.

If you travel slowly while backpacking Central America  (and trust me, you should) you’ll find yourself on all sorts of weird and wild side quests. You know, the kind with people that very quickly become your new friends for life. One minute you’ve stopped for tacos and the next you’re chasing down Rodrigo’s pet chicken or singing karaoke with a Mayan grandmother.

A part of me is desperate to keep this place a secret before it turns into Southeast Asia 2.0, but I just can’t. I gotta spread the love ( pura vida style).

So, I’m here spilling the beans: insider tips, ups and downs, and essential information that I wish I had before I went backpacking in Central America.

Listo ? – Vamos!

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Why Go Backpacking in Central America?

Backpacking Central America is a wild romp through both chaos and a long chill-out session. It lends itself to some incredible overland journeys and rounding out your own manifesto through travel. Because if you really get into learning Spanish here, you’ll suddenly find a whole new world of locals and fellow artisan backpackers opens up to you!

There are markets full of amber, beaches to sell your jewellery at (Central America is actually a good place to have a backpacker hustle), and of course, there is so much delicious food. I’m talking fried platanos, tacos, and ceviche whenever you’re on the coast. Plus, a party is never too far away. 😉

Then there’s the fact that Central America is a pretty cheap place to travel in. Backpacking Central America is ideal for those on a grown-up gap year or another type of time-constrained trip. But for the long-term vagabond who knows how to stretch every last dollar and doesn’t mind camping on beaches – man… Central America is a dreamy place for you!

And when you do want to splurge on some once-in-a-lifetime experiences, well the region delivers them in spades! Learning to free dive or SCUBA dive are two of the more popular ones. Take epic trekking trips, sky diving, and paragliding!

Now, not everyone is ready to throw themselves off a cliff in the name of a bucket list experience … and that’s ok! Central America hears you and instead offers up peaceful yoga retreats in the mountains or lazy beach days in the sunshine. Plus, because the countries that comprise this region are small (with the exception of Mexico) you can spend less time physically travelling and more time actually exploring – or chilling!

Honestly, backpacking in Central America is the whole package: the people, the parties, the paradisiacal landscapes. Now let’s take a look at some of your options for exploring this fantastic part of the world.

Best Itineraries for Backpacking Central America

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Depending on your time frame, there is a wide range of places to begin and end your backpacking trip. Choosing a general Central America backpacking route and itinerary that works for you will help in some of the basic planning on your journey.

One of the reasons I love backpacking in Central America is the ability to be spontaneous. The region thrives on a certain degree of chaos! Best of all, the distances in Central America are not as daunting as in other parts of the world, so it’s a good choice for backpackers short on time.

Besides, I don’t see much point in rushing around the countries. You might as well slow down your travels and enjoy the ride!

Whether you are looking for a 2-week Central America itinerary or a 2+ month travel odyssey, I’ve got you covered amigos! Let’s dive in a explore some of the tried and true Central America backpacking routes I have enjoyed.

2-week Travel Itinerary for Central America: Mexico to Guatemala

This 2-week Central America backpacking itinerary starts on the opposite end of the region. The cheapest flights into Central America usually fly into Cancún, Mexico.

Find somewhere to stay in Cancun and leave the next day – it’s no secret I STRONGLY dislike Cancun! But do spend some time exploring those insane white sand beaches and cenotes in Quintana Roo to make memories you’ll never forget.

Now onwards to Chiapas ! Chiapas is one of Mexico’s most fascinating regions. The food alone makes it worth the visit, although the mix of cultures and the drop-dead gorgeous landscapes will compete for your attention, too. Explore San Crístobal de las Casas before you head to Guatemala.

Guatemala is a whole other fascinating country. Backpacking Guatemala is truly a special experience. It’s here that I accidentally spent six months falling in love with the country.

Some of the best trekking in Central America can be found in Guatemala. It also boasts steamy lush jungles with the most impressive Mayan ruins in the region. Lake Atitlan has, dare I say, spiritual energy that hasn’t been quashed by the many tourists that call it home.

And rounding out your taste for Central America you can stop in at one of the many awesome places to stay in Antigua – one of the most beautiful cities filled with the most delicious food in the world. Honestly, after two weeks in Central America, you’ll be hungry for more!

4-week Travel Itinerary for Central America: Guatemala to Costa Rica

Have a month to visit Central America? Perfect.

This route has you starting off in Guatemala. Of course, you could start in Costa Rica as well. In my opinion, it is better to save it for the end!

I recommend spending at least ten days in Guatemala before heading south. Definitely go to the ruins in Tikal – and make sure to stay in Flores , the town I fell in love with!

Check out the incredible pools at Semuc Champey . Now if you bus back across to find things to do in Lake Atitlan , you can get in your yoga fix while learning deeply from the Mayan culture still strongly felt here.

Next up, walk to the cobblestone streets of the beautiful colonial city, Antigua . This is all before you get out of Guatemala – there is truly so much to do in Guate !

El Salvador is a country that is often skipped over entirely – and what a mistake that is! While backpacking El Salvador certainly is a bit lighter on the typical tourist things, the surfing and epic street food make it a worthy stop on your Central American itinerary. You won’t run into the safety problems you might think you would – especially if you stick to the beautiful beaches.

The killer beaches do not stop when you enter Nicaragua via a Honduras detour. But if you’re somewhat limited by time – my dudes, you’ve got to hit those surf beaches in Nicaragua. Playa Popoyo has some of the most consistent surf but less popular beaches on the way down!

Then there is Costa Rica : the cherry on top of your Central American pie. A big beautiful world of adventure backpacking awaits you when you arrive in the land of Pura Vida.

The surfers will want to stick to the Pacific Coast. Mal Pais  and  Montezuma  are classic Costa Rican surf towns that suck you in!

And the Caribbean beaches of Costa Rica are the perfect end to your Central America backpacking trip – nothing but good vibes out here.

6-week Travel Itinerary for Central America: Mexico to Panama

If you have 6 weeks or more then you can see the whole damn region. A trip to Honduras for some SCUBA diving is totally worth the effort.

The Bay Islands are one of the cheapest places in the world to get your PADI certification. Annddd, you could also learn to freedive aka underwater meditation!

Look, if you do a bunch of diving on top of exploring the Yucatan and the best beaches in Mexico and even doing some sightseeing in Belize and Guatemala , you’ll quickly run out of time!

This 6-week itinerary is the whole enchilada as they say – it’d ideally be better off done with a lot more time up your sleeve. Still, if you head from Utila and the Bay of Islands through the jungle of Honduras you can have an awesome time trekking and exploring Mayan ruins such as the trails through Parque Nacional Montaña de Comayagua.

From there, you can cross to the Pacific side of Nicaragua and surf your way down the coast into Costa Rica and beyond. You have options in terms of the order of everything to see in this route, but it would work well to duck into Panama and hike in Bouquet, before returning to the Caribbean side of Costa Rica .

Settling into the Caribbean vibe, you can carry on back up the Nicaraguan coast and fit in some more snorkelling and diving!

I found a good balance between trekking, diving, visiting ruins, chilling out, and learning a travel language – Spanish. If you do too much of either of those things you can lose appreciation for how special they are. I found it best to settle into a place for at least a few days before heading out on chicken buses.

There are eight countries that make up the region of Central America; each one is worthy of exploration! Backpacking Central America offers up the opportunity to experience a vast array of landscapes, cultures, food, and activities.

Belize, Costa Rica, and parts of Mexico are more expensive than the other countries. El Salvador and Honduras are probably the least visited countries on the list – and yet have some of the best surfing and hiking in the region respectively!

If you are looking to get off the beaten track and away from the gringo trail, it’s easy in all of the Central American countries. This is especially true in Honduras and the Caribbean side of Nicaragua, where few backpackers go. Depending on the time you have, and more importantly your interests , your options of where to go backpacking in Central America are limitless.

Backpacking Mexico

Mexico is Northern America geographically . No, North America is not just the USA and Canada…

But culturally? Central American all the way! Of course I’m including it in backpacking in Central America.

It is a huge country with incredible diversity: ice-capped mountains, steamy jungles, bustling metropolises, great beaches…

The majority of people on a Central American backpacking route tend to stick to the Yucatan Peninsula and Chiapas regions. That said, there is much, much more to Mexico than those two places.

One could spend a lifetime backpacking Mexico and not see all of it. If you’re short on time, these two regions are some of the richest in landscapes and things to do. If you have longer, you should explore Mexico more deeply!

Tulum makes a good base to explore natural and historical treasures of the Yucatan. Seriously, get yourself to the mind-boggling cenotes for a swim and learn to snorkel in epic cave systems. There is some excellent SCUBA diving in Mexico too, but it’s more expensive than Honduras.

Chiapas is one of my favourite parts of Mexico. There is plenty of history, incredible people, and natural wonders to keep you busy for as long as you want. Once you’ve had your fill of epic street food, you can ply through the local markets for colourful trinkets, and top it all off hiking through the highlands. Chiapas really has it all!

An alternative to flying into Cancun is to fly to Mexico City . From there, you can easily catch long-distance buses to other parts of the country or Guatemala. Take the opportunity to explore Mexico city a bit while you’re there though.

The longer you have to spend in Mexico, the longer you should spend in Mexico. She’s a special one!

What to Know Before Visiting Mexico

• Don’t miss out on… The Caribbean side . It’s touristy, but that’s for good reason. Go in search of hidden beaches and the best snorkelling spots.
• You know what’s overrated… all of those beach resort towns. Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Cabo San Lucas…these aren’t the real Mexico. You should sta y in Bacalar instead, it’s much nicer.
• The coolest hostel is… Casa Angel Hostel (Oaxaca City) – This place is pretty dope. Clean, friendly, and great atmosphere. Ticks every box when it comes to hostel life!
• The best food is found in… Oaxaca. Oaxaca is very well-known for its delicious moles and for being the birthplace of mezcal aka the original tequila.

Backpacking Belize

The paradise of Belize is a country I think of as the black sheep of Central America. For one, English is the official language.

Spanish is increasingly spoken as you get closer to the Guatemala border. Belizean Creole is commonly spoken on the coast.

In truth, a well-planned Belize itinerary is a great addition to any Central American backpacking trip. Belize is home to some of the best SCUBA diving opportunities anywhere in the North or South American continents.

The outlying reefs off of the coast are a part of the 2nd largest barrier reef in the world! Yeah eat your heart our Great Barrier Reef – these ones aren’t bleached either!

There are also some terrific Mayan sites inland from the coast. The ruins at Caracol are some of the finest in Central America.

Whilst backpacking Belize, if you are not a vegetarian – and fuck it even if you are – you absolutely must eat lobster on one of the islands. This beautiful, fresh seafood delight will have a little party on your taste buds for less than half the price of the States. Mmmmmm, you delicious little langouste – I miss you!

What to Know Before Visiting Belize

• Don’t miss out on… exploring some of the offbeat Mayan Ruin sites. For some reason, Belize is often overlooked when it comes to Mayan culture.
• You know what’s overrated… going snorkelling at The Great Blue Hole. It is costly to get out there but to really see the marine life, you need to dive . Don’t fall for the snorkelling package.
• The coolest hostel is… Yellow Belly Backpackers (San Ignacio) – A true paradise, this yellow house is the perfect base for travellers to explore natural treasures. It has a darts board, free biked and is 700m from the beach!
• The best food is found in… Caye Caulker has some of the best lobster in the world – with decent prices too! If you’re thinking of staying here, have a look at hostels in Caye Caulker .

Backpacking Guatemala

Guatemala is hands down one of the most dynamic and exciting countries I have ever backpacked. In fact, I loved it so much that I ended up living in Flores (near Tikal) for six months!

The country is so rich in amazing things to experience. You can try artisanal coffee, chow down on the world’s best tamales ( shh don’t tell Mexico!), and experience some of the best hikes in the world in their national parks of volcanoes and jungles.

Mayan cultures are still very strong here. The ruins aren’t so much a relic of a culture lost, but reminders of a culture that remains. I remember walking down my street only to find pieces of obsidian embedded in the dirt road.

The land is very much a life with the people that have occupied here for the last 10 000 years. Tikal is particularly impressive at sunrise, but there are many other Mayan sites to check out, too – like El Mirador .

There are a number of great Spanish language schools in Guatemala if you are keen to learn some Spanish and stay with a host family . Spending a few weeks at a Spanish language school was a game-changing experience for me.

The schools in Antigua or Quetzaltenango are the best. Not only do you embed yourself with a local family and get the privilege of experiencing the town, but your Spanish skills improve at light speed! Speaking Spanish opens up a whole new world for you on your travels in Latin America.

Check out Semuc Champey and Lake Atitlan while you’re in Guate. They might be touristy but they’re still beautiful!

For a true change of pace, you could even try out the boat life by volunteering on a sailboat in the Rio Dulce . Oooh boy, the sailors are a funny bunch down there!

You will fall in love with Guatemala, it’s unavoidable. I’m most certainly counting the days until I return…

What to Know Before Visiting Guatemala

• Don’t miss out on… a 3-day trek around Lake Atitlan, ending in Xela. This one of the most beautiful places in Guatemala .
• Keep an eye out for… safety in Guatemala City. This is probably one of the most hectic places in Guatemala. Base yourself in Antigua instead.
• The coolest hostel is… Earth Lodge (Antigua) – Yoga studio? Organic kitchen? Avocado farm? I can hear the Californians stampede here already.
• The best food is found in… Antigua for western food, Xela for Guatemalan food. Avoid all of the American fast-food restaurants.

Backpacking El Salvador

Straight off the bat, El Salvador has some of Central America’s best and least frequented surf beaches. The Town of El Tunco is a fantastic backpacker hub. La Libertad is another great beach town with excellent surf.

The Montecristo Cloud Forest is a beautiful place to hike. Since El Salvador is not as popular with backpackers, there is ample opportunity to venture off the beaten path.

So bring your bloody surfboard, ok? When you need to leave it behind to go hiking for a few days, the local hostels are more than happy for you to do so.

El Salvador is a country with a troubled history (even by Central American standards) and many problems in the present day. While it is true that El Salvador experiences one of the highest rates of violent crime anywhere on earth, foreigners are rarely targeted .

Basically, if you go looking for trouble, you’ll definitely find it in El Salvador. That being said, the locals look forward to the day when tourism can take off a little better because life is calmer here. They’ll go out of their way to make sure you’re safe and comfortable and enjoying this epic little country.

That said, I wouldn’t venture out into San Salvador at night. However, during the day, San Salvador is pretty dope to explore.

What to Know Before Visiting El Salvador

• Don’t miss out on… Visiting the surf town El Tunco. There is a fun expat vibe, plus the seafood and waves are plentiful.
• Keep an eye out for… Pickpockets and being out late at night in San Salvador. San Salvador is probably not going to be the greatest experience anyway. Get out and head to the beaches, mate!
• The coolest hostel is… Tunco Lodge – a great place to relax in between surf sessions.
• The best food is found in… small local eateries, markets, and food stalls. Generally, I found the best food in the small coastal towns in El Salvador. I mean, fresh ceviche all day, every day? Yes, please!

Backpacking Honduras

Do you want to get PADI SCUBA certified on your backpacking Central America adventure? Head to the Bay Islands , amigos! This is one of the cheapest places in the world to get certified for SCUBA diving.

The legendary island of Utila is a backpacker’s paradise. There are more than a dozen dive centres to choose from. Roatan is a bigger island that caters more to cruise ships and older tourists. It is more expensive than Utila, but the SCUBA diving is arguably better.

The ruins at Cóban are the most significant in Honduras. Pico Bonito National Park is another major highlight of the country. There is an abundance of wild camping and hiking potential in the park.

Honduras often gets skipped over by backpackers – except for Coban and Utila. No, the rest of Honduras seems to remain off the beaten path!

This is a bit of a shame considering there are some epic jungle hikes, and even a sneaky surf beach or two. It’ll definitely be less touristy so your Spanish better be up to scratch. 😉

In all seriousness, as this whole Central America backpacking thingy is very serious, if connecting with locals and seeing a more local side to a region is up your alley – Honduras is the place for you to explore.

What to Know Before Visiting Honduras

• Don’t miss out on… SCUBA diving in the Bay Islands and going to Utila in particular.
• Keep an eye out for… your general well-being in big cities. Also avoid being ripped off by taxi and shuttle drivers. Try to learn what the fair price should be before setting off.
• The coolest hostel is…. Roatan Bed and Breakfast – This super chill hostel in Roatan has been popular with travellers and lived up to expectations since it opened. A great place to make new friends.
• The best food is found in… Johnny Cake bakeries! Honestly, anything from the street stalls!

Backpacking Nicaragua

I love Nicaragua because you can get beautiful beaches similar to those in neighbouring Costa Rica, but without the steep prices. Nicaragua is becoming the backpacker capital of Central America, and fast too.

The Pacific Coast is brimming with surf beaches, funky yoga retreat centres, and ex-pats in addition to friendly locals. The colonial cities of Granada and Leon have beautiful architecture, grand plazas, and strong ties to the Sandinista movement that gripped Nicaragua in the 1980s.

Ometepe Island is surprisingly underdeveloped in many areas. You can rent motorbikes and really explore what the island has to offer. If you like waterfalls, motorbikes, swimming, and rum, head to Ometepe for a few days.

The river and jungle areas of Nicaragua’s interior are wild and full of adventure potential. The Corn Islands off of Nicaragua’s Caribbean beaches are the most far-flung destinations in Central America.

It is no easy effort to arrive there (without flying). Once you do, you will be rewarded by the lack of backpacker hordes.

Nicaragua is the cheapest Central American country! So have a blast without breaking the bank, aye!

What to Know Before Visiting Nicaragua

• Don’t miss out on… Laguna De Apoyo – A gorgeous freshwater lake where one can swim and chill. Also renting motorbikes on Ometepe Island.
• Keep an eye out for… Other backpackers to share the cost of pricy tours with.
• The coolest hostel is… Surfing Turtle Lodge – I personally stayed at this place and kept extending! This is one of the coolest and most unique hostels in the world. If you don’t believe me, Lonely Planet says so too. It’s remote though – cos it’s ON the beach.
• The best food is found in… Leon and Granada for authentic local food. Like with anywhere in Central America: eat from the streets! The world’s best street food is always worth the diahorrea risk. 😉

Backpacking Costa Rica

Costa Rica is the long-standing adventure capital of Central America. Backpackers have been flocking here in search of that pura vida for decades. Costa Rica offers pretty much everything you could ask for: endless wildlife, cloud forests, amazing beaches , huge parties, and an overall easygoing vibe.

The thing is, Costa Rica lives up to the hype. From the capital of San Jose to the Pacific Coast and then back through the jungle to the Caribbean Coast – Costa Rica is really a slice of paradise. Camp out on the beaches as much as possible – trust me, it’s incredible!

Explore the Costa Rican national parks . Learn how to surf. Drink coconut water every damn day.

Make new friends and have the time of your life exploring this special place! I can guarantee that you will come back to Costa Rica for more someday. I sure did.

With so much natural beauty, it’s no surprise that Costa Rica is full of great hikes . The Arenal Volcano area is particularly packed with excellent trails.

Costa Rica has the reputation for being one of Central America’s most expensive countries. Unfortunately, that reputation is true.

That said, exploring this magical country is bound to be a highlight of your backpacking trip. Budget travel in Costa Rica is entirely possible. It just takes a little more effort than backpacking in one of the neighbouring countries.

What to Know Before Visiting Costa Rica

• Don’t miss out on… trekking through the cloud forests around Monteverde, taking a surf class, and staying in a jungle treehouse.
• Keep an eye out for… Staying in San Jose too long. Just a night is enough in San Jose. Keep moving on to the next place.
• The coolest hostel is… Luminosa Montezuma Hostel – Great staff and unbeatable location atop a small cliff overlooking the ocean! Natural springs nearby.
• The best food is found… along the Caribbean coast (e.g Puerto Viejo ). Food in Costa Rica is quite similar from region to region, so I really appreciated the Afro/Garifuna influence found here.

Backpacking Panama

Ok, straight off the bat: Panama is much more than just a tax haven for rich guys . There are some pretty epic volcanoes and jungles to go romping through and the Caribbean Coast is full of some pretty epic slices of paradise!

In fact, the journey from Bocas Del Toro in Panama takes only a few hours to get to from Costa Rica. If you are there in the right season (dry) there is great scuba diving and fishing.

Like Costa Rica, Panama has some fantastic wild jungles and forests once you escape the numerous banana and palm oil plantations.  Baru Volcano National Park is a good place to start exploring.

The San Blas Islands are stunningly beautiful as well. Going through the San Blas Islands is a popular way that backpackers end up getting to Colombia and beginning their backpacking South America journey. Really, if you want to be exploring these low-lying islands by boat – you could try volunteering on a sailboat in the area!

Panama City is a huge sprawling metropolis where one can find some civilization and the associated annoyances. The international airport in Panama City is the main hub for transportation for the region – including flights south to Colombia.

I found it deeply interesting to catch a bus from the outskirts of Panama city and watch as the rural landscape dotted with shanty houses slowly transformed into a city more shiny and full of skyscrapers than anything I’d known back home (bearing in mind I came from a wee Australian town!).

Still, Panama City has some great hostels and interesting sights. I’d recommend climbing the hill to get some epic views of the place.

What to Know Before Visiting Panama

• Don’t miss out on… spending a night on Red Frog Island. If you’re a bit sick of the party hostels in Bocas del Toro , Red Frog is a great place to escape to.
• You know what’s overrated… Any organised “coffee” tour. Honestly, I’m partial to instant coffee so maybe I’m not the best judge! Apparently some of the best coffee in the world is here in Panama – but I’d just sample it yourself from local cafes!
• The coolest hostel is… Lost and Found Hostel – A legend among Panamanian hostels! Fun, interesting, eco-friendly, and amazing views.
• The best food is found …when sailing in the San Blas. Nothing beats fresh fish caught that day by the skipper.

Off the Beaten Path Adventures in Central America

The so-called gringo trail is definitely a thing here in Central America. There are certain hotspots where backpackers congregate. If you ask me, Costa Rica is the country most heavily populated by people travelling in Central America.

While there are plenty of spots on the gringo trail worth visiting, there are ample opportunities to get out and really explore. Indigenous villages, far-flung jungles, isolated beaches, remote mountains, winding rivers, and plenty of national parks provide an eternity of off-the-beaten path adventure potential.

Honduras and El Salvador are two countries that get almost entirely overlooked! This to me is crazy, as I had some of my best memories surfing in El Salvador and tramping through the Honduran jungle.

Even within relatively popular countries like Nicaragua, far fewer backpackers check out the Caribbean Coast. And what a mistake! Some of the best diving, beaches, and food is here.

I think it’s about travelling slowly, authentically, and mindfully. Sure, some tourist spots will be worth your time – but many won’t. And the rewards of getting out there to explore are just so juicy!

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It’s not finding something to do that’s tricky in Central America – it’s picking what to do first! There are some truly spectacular adventures to be had: above, below, and on the water. Whether you end up a boat bum, sailing the Caribbean Coast of Central America or whether you simply dive from time to time, the water will reward you here!

But the jungles, the Mayan culture, the street food, and the markets are also incredible. The more friends you make with artisans, the more likely you are to suddenly know how to make macrame. This is a bit of an obscure thing to do, but it is a handy backpacker job in a pinch!

Anyway, whatever you end up doing in Central America, you know it’s going to be a good time.

1. Get your open-water diving certification

You can SCUBA dive in pretty much every country in Central America and getting your certification will open up a whole new world of travel possibilities. The reef off Cozumel is pretty epic; as are the reefs off Belize. The cheapest place to get your actual certification is in Utila, Honduras.

Diving life is freaking dope! Not only do you get to make friends with the fish, but you also get to indulge in the diving lifestyle. Yeah, there’s a bit of drinking and partying involved let me tell you. 😉

2. Study Spanish

I did two stints of study on two different trips at the Mountain School outside of Xela. The experiences involved a few homestays and truly elevated my Spanish skills to the next level.

You can study Spanish almost anywhere in Central America. The more you sink into a community, the better your language skills get. The better your language skills get, the easier it is to get a richer experience in the country.

3. Stay in a treehouse in Costa Rica

One of the coolest places I have stayed EVER in 10 years of travel was atop a 35-meter treehouse in the middle of the jungle just south of Manzanillo (south Caribbean coast). Tell the owner I said hi if you stay there! The place is called the Nature Observatorio , check it out.

There are so many eco-lodges in Central America. Ok, they might not be quite as cool as a treehouse, but they are pretty damn beautiful – and doing just a little good for the planet.

• Ultimate Eco Lodges Costa Rica
• The Best Eco Lodges in Nicaragua

4. Volcano Boarding in Nicaragua

This activity speaks for itself: charge at top speed down the side of a volcano! Ok, so it’s little more than for novelty’s sake but you know what? Sometimes you’ve just got to do things and be a bit childish!

It’s a hell of a lot of fun and the scenery is really not too bad either.

5. Eat Lobster in Belize

One of the best (and cheapest) places to eat lobster anywhere in the world. No, but for reals, there is nothing better than fresh seafood.

It needs little other ingredients and is so damn good for you. As long as you check in with local regulations, you could even try your hand at spearfishing and get yourself some dinner!

Lemme suggest right now that fresh langouste goes very well seared in a lemon butter sauce. Simply, but delicious!

6. Take a Boat Down the Rio Dulce in Guatemala

It is actually possible to leave Guatemala by boat, bound for Honduras Bay Island through this jungly river system. I actually delivered sailboats from the Rio Dulce to Honduras a couple of times, but many backpackers can simply volunteer on a sailboat heading in that direction.

If you don’t end up on a sailboat, I’d definitely still recommend a boat ride up the Rio Dulce. Basically, you realise how puny your sailboat is as you come in surrounded by walls of the green jungle… Yeah it’s pretty freaking epic.

7. Visit the San Blas Islands in Panama

Whether you are a party animal or beach lover (or both) – a trip around the San Blas islands is one you’ll never forget (or will never remember, depending on rum consumption).

If you are sailing at your own pace, you’ll be able to get into the swing of island life and see some of the cultures there. Most people simply pass through – which is all well and good and you’ll definitely still have a dope party time! But to really understand how incredibly stunning – but also unique – San Blas is, then you’ll need to slow down and spend some time there.

8. Ride the waves!

Nicaragua and Costa Rica in particular are world-class surf destinations and great places to learn, but the entire Pacific Coast of Central America is full of epic surf spots. El Salvador is a surfing hotspot that is overlooked – and that’s a shame!

So all you surf bums need to pack your boards and get on down to Central America. A goddamn delightful trip awaits you! Plus, we all know the rules of surfing life. Dawn surf, beers for lunch, party all night.

9. Visit the Cenotes in Mexico

Cenotes are a little slice of magic. They’re these clear, blue swimming holes sunken into limestone earth. The best swimming holes on earth are found in the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico. The Maya used to use them for water sources… or dropping dead people…

Today, there is almost something mystical to these locations. And even the popular ones are bloody awesome.

It’s really out of this world to be able to see up to 50 metres deep! Plus, the cold water is such a welcome relief when you’re sweltering through the Yucatan’s humidity.

10. Change your plans

Here’s a warning. Central America travel goes something like this: you arrive, you fall in love, you don’t want to leave. While it’s good to have a rough idea of which direction you want to go, the worst thing you could do is plan every part of your backpacking trip to a T. 

Get chatting with locals and other backpackers about their favourite places. Leave some wiggle room in your itinerary so you can extend your stay in those places that make you feel at home. 

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Central America has plenty of budget accommodation options for backpackers. When you are not passing the night from the comfort of your tent or Couchsurfing, you’ll need to book a hostel.

Whether you just need a place to lay your head or a spot to meet fellow travellers, hostels are clearly where it’s at… Once you come around to hostel life , you’ll forever look back on the fond memories you made there!

But you know what? Nothing beats a night camping under the stars or deep within in the jungle. I think one of my favourite nights in all my travels was camping at the Yaxha ruins in Guatemala. Of course, I had a good hiking tent , so my sleep was perfect.

The evening was spent chatting with the custodians of the park and playing cards. I fell asleep to the sounds of howler monkeys and woke to see the sunrise over the lake. So yes, staying in a hostel is an awesome way to connect with other travellers – but sometimes you’ve just got to go bush.

• Where to Stay Mexico
• Where to Stay Belize
• Where to Stay in Antigua Guatemala
• Where to Stay in Leon Nicaragua
• Where to Stay Costa Rica
• Where to Stay in Panama City

Each country in Central America will affect your budget in a different way. I found Nicaragua to be the cheapest country in Central America, followed closely by El Salvador, and Guatemala.

Honduras can be very cheap as well, though not super cheap in the Bay Islands. Costa Rica and Belize are far more expensive for certain things like transport and accommodation.

Travelling in Central America certainly does not need to be expensive! If you are worried about spending too much money, I recommend allotting more time for yourself to explore the cheaper countries. But honestly, if you stick to the tried and true methods of budget backpacking , your wallet will be quite alright.

A Daily Budget For Backpacking Central America

Here is a breakdown of what you can expect to pay on a daily basis whilst backpacking Central America…

Central America Budget Travel Hacks

• Camp: With plenty of gorgeous places to camp, Central America is a great place to pitch if you have a good-quality tent . Camping saves you money and can help you get off the beaten path.
• Pack a hammock: If you’re feeling really adventurous and want to save some cash, consider picking up a  backpacking hammock . Central America has plenty of palm trees and hammock-ready beaches. If you want to bring something with you on your trip that you will use all the time, this beauty is your best bet.
• Cook your own food:  Travel with a  portable backpacking stove  and cook your own food to save some serious cash whilst backpacking across Central America. If you plan to do some overnight hiking trips or to spend time at a surf camp, having a backpacking stove will be a great asset.
• Couchsurf:  Central American locals are awesome. Get to know some by learning to couchsurf ! Check out Couchsurfing to make some real friendships and see a country from the perspective of locals. When using Couchsurfing, be sure to send personalized messages to your potential host. A generic copy-and-paste message is much more likely to get turned down. Make yourself stand out.

Why Should You Travel to Central America with a Water Bottle?

Plastic washes up on even the most pristine beaches… so do your part and keep the Big Blue beautiful!

You aren’t going to save the world overnight, but you might as well be part of the solution and not the problem. When you travel to some of the world’s most remote places, you come to realise the full extent of the plastic problem. I hope you become more inspired to continue being a responsible traveller .

Plus, now you won’t be buying overpriced bottles of water from the supermarkets either! Travel with a filtered water bottle instead and never waste a cent nor a turtle’s life again.

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

When to go to Central America varies with the weather as each country in Central America has its own unique climate. The dry season is generally December, January, February, and March : this is certainly the time when most people visit. You can have some great weather in November and April as well.

The rainy season can be a beautiful time to visit. The rain only complicates things if you want to do heaps of outdoor activities. During Christmas and the New Year, Costa Rican beaches are flat-out slammed with foreigners and locals alike.

Scuba diving is best in the winter or early spring months ( Nov-Feb ). The water has better visibility and the islands are generally more pleasant when it’s not pissing down rain. Basically, if you’re willing to put up with some rainy days and slightly less crowded beaches then do so: the jungle is certainly beautiful.

Also, the higher in altitude that you get, the more the weather changes. I can’t give a super accurate country breakdown because it truly depends where in the country you are as to what kind of weather you’ll get. Anything by the ocean is going to be more chill and have a less pronounced rainy season.

What to Pack for Central America

For such a variety of climates and range of activities to be done while backpacking Central America, you will need the  ultimate packing list .

There is no need to be that person who carts around 50 kilos of luggage. But you don’t want to be without the essentials either!

So what do you really need? Here are some essentials that accompany me on every single backpacking trip.

Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

Sea To Summit Micro Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Monopoly Deal

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Grayl Geopress Water Bottle

Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!

Well, when people realise I’ve spent six months living in Central America and more travelling, they immediately ask: Well is Central America safe ? Whilst it is true that Central America suffered through decades of brutal war, gang violence, and a horrific narcotics trade, modern-day Central America is a different story (though many of these problems still exist, big time).

Don’t get me wrong, Central America still has a huge problem with gang violence and the narco trade, but it is concentrated in specific areas tourists don’t usually wander into. 99% of the trouble I ever hear about from backpackers started with them trying to buy drugs/buying drugs.

So yes, the standard safe backpacking rules apply but no, you’ll rarely be running for your life here. However, I’d still think it was dishonest if I didn’t say that Central America has a higher crime rate than other parts of the world and foreigners are more likely to get caught up in something. Certain areas (mainly cities) in Central America have the highest rates of homicide anywhere in the world (not in a war zone).

That said, foreigners are very rarely involved or targeted by violence. And the one mugging I did accidentally witness was very quickly shut down by the neighbours because of how loud the girl screamed. In fact, the would-be robber was taken aside and dealt with by the community…

Basically, should you on the off chance find yourself being robbed, be loud but don’t be a hero. Aaaand, it’s probably not going to happen to you as long as you keep your wits about you.

• Is Mexico Safe to Visit?
• Is Guatemala Safe to Visit?
• Is Belize Safe to Visit?
• Is Nicaragua Safe to Visit?
• Is Costa Rica Safe to Visit?
• Is Honduras Safe to Visit?

Sex, Drugs, and Rock n’ Roll in Central America

What can I say? The first time I backpacked across Central America – I felt like the months I spent there were almost a continuous party. The backpacker circuit is well established and – in pretty much every hostel you stay at – there are other people game for putting a few beers back.

Drugs like cocaine and weed are VERY abundant along the backpacker trail. My advice: dabbling a few times is a normal part of the backpacker experience – but be careful – 1. the drug trade is one of the most destructive forces in Central America and 2. hard drugs like coke are very addictive and overdoses do happen.

Prostitution is rampant across every country in Central America. I found that in some parts of Costa Rica, I was approached by sex workers nearly every single night. Remember that sex trafficking is also a big problem in Central America and the people working in the trade may not be doing so by choice.

In general, party and have a good time when you feel like it – but remember to take it easy too. Climbing a volcano or doing a big trek is WAY more fun when you are not hungover – take it from me. 😉

Getting Insured BEFORE Travelling to Central America

No matter what you do, travelling always involves some level of risk. So I HIGHLY recommend getting good backpacker insurance sorted before you

Before you go travelling,  please consider a  good travel insurance provider .  Shit happens on the road (and open ocean) all the time, and when it does, it’s nice to know  somebody  has got your back. And what’s the one travel insurance provider The Broke Backpacker trusts for all its insurance needs…?

World Nomads!

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

I started my two Central America backpacking trips from Cancun and Guatemala City respectively. If you are coming from North America or Europe, you can score some pretty sweet deals on airlines flying into Cancun.

I personally hate Cancun, but its airport gets the job done. It’s much cheaper than Belize City, for example, which really isn’t too far away. To maximize your budget, it is all about finding cheap flights to Central America!

It is also possible to find cheap flights to the other Central American capital cities. Panama City is probably the cheapest, followed by Managua, and San Jose. Check out our post on how to score cheap flights to find a bargain on flights to Central America.

Depending on your time frame and schedule, you can make an informed decision about where to start your trip. If you’re keen on backpacking Central America in its entirety, I recommend starting in Mexico and working your way south. You might be lucky to find a cheap flight to Panama City, but really, that would be very lucky,

Conveniently, most Central American countries don’t require any sort of visa to enter either. Most Western nations, including the US, UK, EU, and Australia, can visit each country visa-free for a period of 90 days. Be aware though that some countries like to charge a small entry fee.

The easiest and cheapest option is to travel to Central America by bus. The region is famous for the chicken bus .

The Guatemalan chicken bus is a sight to behold. These old American school buses are often painted with psychedelic colours and filled to the brim with humans (and sometimes chickens).

A majority of the buses have been bought in the USA at auction and then driven down to Central America to live out a second (exhausting) life in public transportation. Instead of carrying American school children, they are flying down steep mountain roads with various local populations packed inside. I can almost smell the sweet aroma of burning breaks and delicious roadside snacks.

In Costa Rica and the Mexican Yucatan Peninsula, the buses are of better quality, but much more expensive than elsewhere in the region. In major cities, public transit systems are complicated but relatively easy to get around. Some of the larger cities – like Mexico City – have easy-to-use metros.

To get to the various Caribbean islands, you can catch a ferry. The ferries are more expensive than I anticipated, so budget accordingly.

You will hear the words “taxi taxi taxi” just about everywhere you go. Taxis are always more expensive than taking the bus but can be useful in certain situations. But turn your haggle game and ALWAYS set the price with the driver before getting into the cab.

Hitchhiking in Central America

Learning to hitchhike is definitely an option, buttttt it’s definitely easier when you know how to speak Spanish. If you dress the part and look like every other Latina vagabond, drivers will typically know what you’re doing. However, I always think it’s a good idea to offer to shout lunch or explain the journey that you’ve been on.

Hitchhiking edict changes from person to person, as some people picking you up, might want talkative company, and some people prefer quiet. This is where it’s much easier to speak Spanish so you can gauge the situation. Depending on the country, you’ll have differing wait times/success while hitchhiking.

I hitchhiked in Mexico with the most luck. My chicken and I met van lifers, musicians, farmers, and other solo travellers in Central America . I feel like hitchhiking really does open up the world of travel in a much more raw way.

Onwards Travel from Central America

Looking to continue travelling south after backpacking Central America? You have a few options. You can always fly from Panama City, Mexico City, or Cancun (depending on which direction you travel the region) onto South America or Europe.

A far more rewarding alternative is to take a boat. Multiple boat companies now offer passage from Panama to Colombia via the San Blas Islands with trips ranging from three to five days. If you are keen to go on an island-hopping sailing adventure, this option is for you.

From here you can go on to backpack South America! Fuck yeah!

The third option, if you can call it that, is crossing the Darien Gap overland. Rumour has it that you can hire a guide (for quite a bit of money) and cross the Darien Gap on foot. In the past, this was impossible due to narco-terrorist/guerrilla activity and is still considered a very dangerous place to cross . May the backpacker gods be with you if you attempt the journey on your own without a guide.

Taking a boat from Panama to Colombia sounds like the most fun for sure. You’ll have a chance to sleep on totally isolated islands and swim in crystal clear waters whilst drinking some ice-cold beers on your boat… It’s an epic trip.

• Backpacking Colombia
• Backpacking Ecuador
• Backpacking Peru
• Backpacking Brazil

Central America has been an ex-pat destination for decades. The whole spectrum of humanity comes down here for various reasons: retirement, to escape the desk, for the digital nomad lifestyle , to surf endlessly, to party forever, or to simply enjoy a cheaper cost of living away from the rat race.

Central America is one of the leading candidates for backpackers and digital nomads looking for a place to settle long-term (according to recent digital nomad trends ). Certainly, some countries cost more to live in than others, but generally speaking, life just costs less in Central America and one can enjoy a very pleasant lifestyle with about half the cost of living in Europe or the USA.

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

Volunteering in Central America

Volunteering abroad is an amazing way to experience a culture whilst giving something back. There are loads of different volunteer projects in Central America ranging from teaching to animal care to agriculture to pretty much everything! 

Programs run through reputable work exchange programs like Worldpackers and Workaway are generally well-managed and highly reputable. However, they aren’t without their flaws too. whenever you are volunteering, stay vigilant, especially when working with animals or children.

Central America is home to dozens of distinct ethnic groups – each with its own set of traditions, food styles, dress, and in some cases, language. The ethnically Mayan peoples of the Guatemalan highlands I found to have the richest and most distinct cultural practices and traditions that have largely survived the modernization (and bloody civil war) of Guatemala.

One really feels the vibe of ancient traditions when you spend a few nights in a Mayan village. Similarly, I found the Garifuna communities in Belize and Honduras to be full of life – especially when it came to music and food.

A major thread that connects all of the Central American countries is religion. This is a very Catholic region almost without exception with local saints and patrons to be found in every village it seemed.

In general, I found the people in every country I visited in Central America to be kind, generous, and welcoming – and just as often very keen on sharing a strong drink and a chat with you, time permitting.

What to Eat in Central America

The food in Central America can be as diverse as its human inhabitants…

Though, I’ll start by saying that I have been much more wowed by the food in Asia and the Middle East than by the backpacker staples of rice and beans in Central America. That said, you can find some really tasty stuff to try!

Must-Try Dishes in Central America

• Tamales (Everywhere) – A kinda of staple puree with a filling, cooked and served in a leaf. Every town and every person has their own style. They’re cheap and delicious – so always take at least one wherever you see them.
• Pupusas (El Salvador) – Originating in El Salvador, Pupusas are all over Guatemala. Thick corn tortillas stuffed with fillings – usually refried beans, cheese and/or pork – Nothing like that crunchy fried texture with the squishy inside.
• Ceviche (Everywhere) – Fresh fish doesn’t come any fresher than ceviche. Not cooked, but marinaned in lime. Feels weird, tastes incredible.
• Tacos (Mexico and Guatemala) – If you’re hungry, tacos. If you’re not, tacos. If you don’t eat meat, often no tacos: we have to go hungry in some places.
• Mole (Mexico) – This soul sauce is made up of the ingredients directly from the heart of the women who spend hours on end concocting it. It dates prehispanic and Puebla and Oaxaca have the best ones.
• Gallo Pinto (Costa Rica): The national dish of Costa Rica! Rice and beans (yes, again) stir-fried together to create a speckled appearance. It is usually served for breakfast along with eggs and sour cream or cheese. There is no avoiding it.
• Olla de Carne (Costa Rica): A hearty stew of beef, cassava (a starchy tuber used in  Tico cooking), and whatever else gets thrown into the pot.
• Johnny Cakes and Fry Jacks (Belize) :  Both the jacks and Johnny cakes are made from flour: the jacks are flattened and fried, the Johnny cakes are round fluffy savory biscuits. Like everything, it’s best with butter or cheese.
• Lobster (Belize):  Self-explanatory and f***** delicious.

While you’re out here travelling, vagabonding, and being a broke backpacker, I’d encourage you to have a little pot of funds to try some unique experiences. Because there are some truly special activities to try out when you’re in Central America.

Yes, you can go paragliding or bungee jumping. You can volcano board, or trek through jungles.

But there are two activities that Central America can really claim as its own: SCUBA diving and surfing . The fun in the sun never stops along this coastline!

Things go wrong on the road ALL THE TIME. Be prepared for what life throws at you.

Buy an AMK Travel Medical Kit before you head out on your next adventure – don’t be daft!

SCUBA Diving in Central America

You should know by now that Central America has some excellent scuba diving venues. It is possible to go diving in all of the countries as they all have access to the coast. Mexico, Belize, and Honduras are the clear winners.

Diving in Belize is more expensive than in Honduras, although undoubtedly still epic. The great blue hole is an awesome diving experience but so are the multitude of shallow reefs around the place too.

Mexico might have the most famous areas – like Cozumel and the cenotes – but I’d argue they more than live up to the hype. You can swim with manta rays, whale sharks, turtles, and innumerable tropical fish!

If you’re going a little further afield, backpacking Cuba can offer up some truly mind-blowing dive sites. Plus, although the Cayman Islands are technically British, they’re just south of Cuba and are basically one whole island full of dive sites.

However, The Bay Islands in Honduras are the go-to spot for getting your PADI certification. The backpacker scene on Utila makes up part of the draw as well.

During my time in Utila, I met many people in the Bay Islands who had moved there for the majority of the year to work in the diving industry. I must admit I was pretty envious of them. If you are looking to live somewhere beautiful long-term, becoming a diving instructor is one sweet way to make that happen.

Surfing in Central America

Surfing reigns supreme on much of Central America’s southern Pacific coast starting in El Salvador and winding down all the way to Costa Rica and Panama. Some of the best surf beaches in the Northern Hemisphere are found here.

New to surfing? There are plenty of surf schools to help you get the start you need in order to catch a few waves.

A stint at a Nicaragua or Costa Rica surf camp is a good way to fully immerse yourself in the world of surfing. Meeting people who have a higher level than you always helps one to improve.

A surf camp is basically a surfing hostel with (dorms) or without rooms (camping) where communities of surfers base themselves. Life at a surf camp is rough. Surfing, eating, making friends, and partying make up the main activities. Sound like fun? Time to get packing my friends.

Is Central America safe for backpackers?

Yes, most of Central America is perfectly safe to visit – including Honduras and El Salvador. But there are some parts of all the big cities in the region that you should avoid walking in at night, as well as always following your standard safety procedure.

How long do you need to backpack Central America?

I’d recommend a minimum of 6 weeks in Central America but even that will feel rushed. If you travel slowly and volunteer along the way, you could easily spend 3 – 6 months backpacking in Central America.

Where can I go backpacking in Central America?

All the countries in Central America offer something a little different, so it depends on what you’re after! You could go surfing, hiking, diving, or on a food tour. Guatemala might be your best bet for hiking, whereas El Salvador or Nicaragua would be better for surfing.

Is Central America safe for solo female travellers?

Generally, yes. I don’t think Central America is less safe for women than other travellers. You still need to keep your wits about you, listen to your gut, and then you will likely have a very safe experience.

Why did the chicken cross Central America?

Because Indigo needed a friend. No, it’s not a joke: that really is Indigo’s friend.

Our GREATEST Travel Secrets…

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Be good to Central America.

Central America is a region that has not had it easy over the years, and yet they’ve bounced back. It’s a beautiful region full of people that are genuinely excited to show off their home to you. So with that, my last bit of advice would just be to travel in a way that leaves the place better – not worse.

The surfing, the diving, the hiking, the partying… It’s all supremely good here.

You get the best of the backpacker world and the local’s world once you pick up a little Spanish and leave the gringo trail. You’ll meet friends for life and get swept up in adventures that sound unreal when you retell them back home.

But that’s just Latin America for you! It’s kind to the vagrants and the artisans with the next free camping spot just up the road. The markets are full of colour and the streets are full of delectable food.

So off you go, book that ticket, and get to exploring! I found a second home here and I’m almost certain that you will too! Hopefully, I’ll see you on the road sometime.

• Backpacking Southeast Asia
• How to Find Cheap Flights
• Best Party Cities in the World
• The Best Travel Cameras

Updated February 2023 by Laura Hall .

Joe Middlehurst

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26 Comments

We are hoping to do Central America from Mid April to Mid May… we thought we’d start in Panama or Costa Rica and head north to try and catch the best of the weather, but every suggested itinerary I’ve seen online suggests travelling in the opposite direction. Can anyone offer any guidance on what the best option is and why? Especially travelling at the end of the dry season/beginning of the rainy season? Any guidance much appreciated.

Very good guide, it helped me a lot during my trip through Central America. I look forward to a post-pandemic update.

Awesome to hear, Isla!

Amazing blog Keep posting such content

Hi Chris, My friends and I are really keen to #3 Backpacking Central America Itinerary 4 weeks: Guatemala to Costa Rica, but there’s not a lot of detail listed. How many days would you recommend at each stop? Best wishes,

travelling is love

I meant Chris, not Will. I’m so sorry!

Thank you so much for the amazing information, Will! I plan on backpacking Central America starting this December through every in Central America. I know some countries require a negative Covid test 72 hours prior to entering. How would this be achieved when crossing borders from country to country throughout my trip? Would I need to get a Covid test in each country? If so, how would I go about doing that? I am currently vaccinated for Covid, could I just show them my vaccination card? Thank you so much for your time, I just want to make sure I’ll be able to complete my journey!

Hi Jonathan, Its great you have been vaccinated. Make sure you have proof of your vaccination with you, make sure you have a digital back up copy too. Regarding the Covid tests for travel, you will need to follow the exact instructions given by each country prior to border crossing. I imagine most countries will have this listed on their website, including how, when and where to get the test done. Unfortunately, even if you have the vaccine you may still need to follow the testing protocol. Have a great time.

Thanks for sharing this wonderful article. It’s really helpful and valuable tips.It’s really good and thanks for sharing this good article.

Glad you enjoyed it! Safe travels.

Your blog is by far the best backpacking one out there. I spent 6 weeks travelling Central America this past summer using many suggestions from your site, and am planning my SE Asia trip in May again using your blog as a guide and starting point. Thank you!!

Thanks Brianna, have a great time in SEA!

Your photos are awesome! They really add a lot to your article. Do you use a high end camera or a smartphone to get such great shots?

My boyfriend and I are currently planning a trip to CA and this blog post SERIOUSLY had EVERYTHING we were looking for! Thank you!!

Hi! Did you need a proof of the onward journey (pr return ticket) when entering countries of CA?

Oh my god, it’s a gamble. As of 2 years ago, most times you’re not asked. When you are, you can usually get by if you tell them something really specific, like “I’m going to take a bus to Costa Rica next month for a jungle trek.” Make sure that whatever it is you say, it’s actually far enough out, because in some countries they’ll limit your visa only for as long as you need it. Hope this helps!

Honestly man. I never really leave any comments on blogs but this is one of the most helpful, detailed and honest blogs I have ever stumbled upon. Thank you for being realistic about safety concerns in central America, talk about realistic prices and your detailed itineraries are incredible. Keep it going!!

Thanks for the love Lars! We hope you make it to Central America and love it!

Hey, I totally get wanting to eliminate plastic waste but in Mexico & Central/South America, we are unable to drink water that comes out of taps or fountains. So where to refill the reusable bottles??? I hope I’m not missing an article about this, I clicked on your links and didn’t see any explanation….. GREAT GUIDES, MIL GRACIAS!

I carry a Grayl Geopress 🙂

when did you visit central America? is it safe for a male and female to take buses from cancun to Honduras and maybe further at this time? Even with all the travel warnings? I loved the blog post, I will certainly use it to plan more of my trip.

I wouldn’t take public transport in Honduras but private buses with decent bus lines should be OK

Amazing guide, thank you! I’m planning to solo-backpack through Central America this spring. Can you tell me, where will I meet other backpackers and make friends? Where is a good and safe place to start my backpacking-journey? Thank you! 🙂

I recommend starting in Guetamala – Antigua is chill 🙂 You’ll meet people in hostels – just choose some sociable ones 🙂

Thumbs up for the security belt with a hidden pocket you suggested. I make my husband wear it anytime we’re traveling 🙂

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Ultimate CENTRAL AMERICA Travel Guide

Central America  is a fascinating place to visit offering lush rainforests, diverse wildlife, hidden beaches, massive preserves and national parks, rich history and indigenous heritage. This Central America travel guide is designed to uncover some of our favorite places and things about this region and help you plan your own trip to this unique part of the world.

Defining Central America can be referred to as the region that resides between  North America  and  South America . It is made up of seven countries including Belize, Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua, Guatemala, Costa Rica, and Panama. Mexico, while not officially included in this region, is often included too.

These countries are bordered by Mexico to the North,  Colombia  to the South, the Atlantic Ocean to the West, and the Caribbean Sea to the East.

Destinations

Central america travel: quick tips.

Don’t Visit CENTRAL AMERICA Without:

UNIVERSAL TRAVEL ADAPTER

GET A GUIDEBOOK

REUSABLE WATER BOTTLE

CENTRAL AMERICA BUCKET LIST

BIRD WATCHING IN COSTA RICA

Boasting more than 850 bird species, twice as many species as the USA and Canada combined, Costa Rica, is a bird watcher and photography mecca. Keep your eye out for the Resplendent Quetzal, as well as toucans, parrots, trogons, hummingbirds, and macaws.

SNORKEL THE BLUE HOLE

Located off the coast of Belize, and part of the second-largest barrier reef in the world, the Great Mayan Reef is the famous Blue Hole. This giant marine sinkhole is 318 meters across, 124 meters deep, and lined with incredible coral reef systems to snorkel and dive. 

VISIT THE SAN BLAS ISLANDS

The San Blas Islands are a series of islands that belong to the Guna Yala people off the Caribbean coast of  Panama . They offer an idyllic island escape with white sand beaches and turquoise waters. It’s the perfect place to snorkel, kayak, and SUP.

MORE THINGS TO TRY IN CENTRAL AMERICA

There is no shortage of great  places to visit in Central America  during your visit and the biggest problem you’ll face is fitting them all into your itinerary.

Each country has its own offering and unique things to check out during a visit, so be sure to look at our country guides once you decide where you’re itinerary will take you.

ADVENTURE IN ROATAN:   Soaring above the lush jungles of Honduras is a definite highlight of any Honduras itinerary. The course in  Roatan  is built with several segments, meaning this adventure lasts much longer than any single zip line. You’ll get to be above the tree canopy with incredible views of the ocean.

SLOW DOWN IN CAYE CAULKER:  It’s all about island time when you visit  Caye Caulker, Belize . There are some yummy local restaurants, white sand beaches and some fantastic snorkeling to be had here. It is also a great place to access the Hol Chan Marine Park from.

HIKE THE RING OF FIRE IN GUATEMALA:  Embark on a trek that conquers the 7 major volcano summits in Guatemala dubbed the ring of Fire that make up the Western Backbone of the country. This is one of the world’s  Top 100 Travel Adventures , so it’s not for the light of heart.

RAFT THE PACUARE RIVER IN COSTA RICA:  Some of the best white water rafting in the world takes place on the Pacuare River in Costa Rica. The best part of the river is rafted on a minimum 2 day/1 night trip that puts you up in a rustic jungle lodge for the night. It is also possible to extend the stay in the jungle for any number of nights too. The river is best rafted when it is producing class III rapids.

SOAK UP THE SUN ON BALLENA BEACH:  One of Costa Rica’s hidden gems, Ballena Beach is a place that the locals love to go. The beautiful stretch of beach sits right up against the lush rainforest, offering hiking opportunities. In the water, you’ll enjoy snorkeling with a diverse array of marine life. If you just want to relax, bring your beach towel and sit under the swaying palm trees for an afternoon of Pura Vida.

WATCH DOLPHINS IN GOLFO DULCE:  You’ll have to put in some work and planning to reach Golfo Dulce, as it’s quite off the beaten path, but you won’t regret it. Not only is there spectacular bird watching here but you’ll also enjoy the company of dolphins when you’re on the water.

TRANSIT THE PANAMA CANAL:  One of the most iconic sites in the world is the Panama Canal, a dredged stretch of water that allows transit between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. The construction of the canal is brilliant and booking a cruise that includes a transit of it will give you an up-close and personal look at how it works.

VISIT COIBA NATIONAL PARK:  Located in Panama, Coiba National Park offers so much beauty that even the Costa Ricans are jealous of it (true story!). This part is the definition of pristine, featuring both mainland and island preserves to enjoy. For a day of sun and snorkeling, you’ll want to head to Granito de Oro.

JOURNEY INTO THE DARIEN GAP:  Easily one of the most notorious stretches of land on the planet, the Darien Gap is not a place for the faint of heart. It serves as the most northern tip of the Amazon Rainforest and has played host to some of the most dangerous drug cartels in the world. That aside, its pristine primary rainforest that is begging to be explored. One of the highlights from our visit was meeting the Embera Tribe and learning about their culture.

TOUR THE FORTS IN PORTOBELO:  As with most of Central and South America, Panama has a strong Spanish colonial history. This means you can find ruins and remnants dotted throughout the country. Portobelo is no exception, offering one of the best preserved forts in Central America. You can expect to see walls and buildings constructed from coral and plenty of canons.

FOODIE BUCKET LIST

Central American food revolves around a few staple ingredients, but you’ll be surprised at how creative local chefs can get. During your travels, you’ll be eating lots of  rice, beans, and plantains , usually with  vegetables  and  grilled meat or fish .

Central Americans have lots of local dishes too. In El Salvador, the local specialty is  Pupusas  – maize tortillas stuffed with delicious fillings. In Costa Rica, you’ll be eating  Gallo Pinto , and in Guatemala, you’ll be gorging on spicy,  Mayan inspired stews .

CENTRAL AMERICA FESTIVALS

Central America is packed with exciting cultural and religious festivals throughout the year. The most important week of the year for most locals is  Semana Santa  – or Holy Week – which is the lead up to Easter.

Each town, village, and city has its own  Carnival , where you’ll get to party and dance the night away with locals (Panama City has a particularly famous carnival in February).

CONSIDERING A CENTRAL AMERICA CRUISE?

Central america travel budget.

Setting a budget for travel to Central America is highly dependent on your travel style. It is possible to visit just about anywhere on any budget and still have a great trip. That said, you can make your trip as basic or as luxurious as you desire.

To help you set your budget, we’ve included some base range price estimations for travel within Central America. Of course, keep in mind that prices can fluctuate based on seasons, availability and festivals.

ACCOMMODATION:  When you travel to Central America, accommodation can be found for as low as USD 10 per night in  hostels , while  private rooms  or  guest houses  shouldn’t cost more than USD 30 per night.  Luxury hotels  or  eco-lodges  can be found for upwards of USD 50 per night.

FOOD:  Food is inexpensive across Central America travel routes. You can often find good  restaurant meals  for between USD 5 and USD 10 per person (with a few beers thrown in, too). You can eat  street food  for less than this (a few dollars), or splurge and enjoy  high-end restaurants  in the cities and tourist spots.

TRANSPORT:  Local transport, such as the infamous  Chicken Bus , is incredibly cheap. You can cross the entirety of El Salvador for less than 5 USD, for instance.  Tourist shuttles  or overnight,  first-class buses  are much more expensive, however. A bus ride from San Salvador to Guatemala City will cost around 50 USD. The  ferry  from La Ceiba to Roatan costs around USD 30 each way.  Flights  in the region are more expensive, however, and can cost hundreds of dollars for international hops.

ACTIVITIES:  Activities are a fantastic value when you travel to Central America.  Scuba diving  can cost as little as USD 30 per dive (Roatan is one of the cheapest places in the world to dive),  hiking  day trips will cost 20-30 USD, and  guided tours  the same.

50 USD PER DAY

USD 30 to USD 50 per day will get backpackers dorm rooms, the odd private room, local transport on chicken buses, street food, and plenty of activities.

100 USD PER DAY

USD 50 to 100 will give midrange travelers private or tourist transport for much of the trip, restaurant food, and private rooms in nicer hotels.

150 USD + PER DAY

Luxury travelers spending above USD 150 per day will be able to enjoy some of the best hotels, as well as private tours, first-class transport, and restaurant meals.

HOW TO GET AROUND IN CENTRAL AMERICA

There are a few ways to get around Central America during a visit, including cruises, ferries and flights. Despite most of the countries being small, there is a surprising number of ways to get around. Plan ahead and be flexible.

CRUISES:  It is possible to visit many of the popular areas of Central America by cruise ship. This is primarily done on the Caribbean side and you cruise from Mexico to South America stopping off in multiple Central America ports along the way. It is also possible to visit the Pacific side of Costa Rica and Panama with smaller expedition ships too.

BUS:  Major cities are all connected by regular first-class bus services, which are safe to travel overnight on. You can travel by bus all the way from Guatemala City to Panama City if you desire. Some major tourist destinations are only connected by tourist shuttle services or local chicken buses. Lake Atitlan to El Salvador, for instance, requires three changes of the chicken bus. Or you just jump on the dedicated tourist shuttle (it’s less authentic, but it’s quicker). If you’re getting off the beaten track, then you’ll have to use local transport and have plenty of patience.

FLIGHTS:  The quickest way to get around during your Central America travel trip is to fly (at least from one country to the next); however, flights only often connect major cities and can be infrequent and expensive. If you’re short on time, however, and want to see more than one country this will be your best, and in many cases, only option.

FERRIES:  Major islands such as Roatan, the Corn Islands, or Bocas del Toro, all have regular ferry services in the dry season. To access more exclusive or off the beaten track places like Coiba National Park and the San Blas Islands, you’ll need to hire a private boat transfer or book a day tour.

CAR RENTAL:  It’s not unheard of to rent a car in Costa Rica or Belize to do some exploration on your own. Some travelers also do it in Panama. Outside of those three countries, it isn’t advised. Check out  Discover Rental Cars  for great deals.

TOP CENTRAL AMERICA TOURS

BEST OF PANAMA

8 Days from Panama City Visits: Panama City, Boca del Toro, Boquete & David

CLASSIC BELIZE & TIKAL

9 Days Belize City to Caye Caulker Visits: Belize City, San Ignacio, Tikal, Flores & Caye Caulker

EXPLORE COSTA RICA

14 Days from San Jose Visits: Manuel Antonio NP, Monteverde, Arenal & Tortuguero

GRAND MAYAN ADVENTURE

22 Days from Playa del Carmen Visits: Belize, Guatemala & Mexico – following the Mayan highway

WHEN TO VISIT CENTRAL AMERICA

Central America has a  diverse range of microclimates , and the weather on the Pacific Coast can often be very different from the weather on the Caribbean Coast. The highlands are cooler than the lowlands, but it’s going to be hot and humid in general. When you plan your Central America travel itinerary, you should factor in the  wet and dry season .

The  dry season  runs from November through to April, and the wet season from May to October. Strangely, in Costa Rica, this is often reversed: the country has many mini-wet and mini-dry spells throughout the year.

As with anywhere tropical, the dry season is the most popular time to travel to Central America. In many destinations, though, you’ll find it’s never that busy, especially if you avoid the Christmas, New Year, and Easter holidays.

The  wet season  can be ferocious at times, but generally, you’ll see lots of rainfall in a short period, in the morning or afternoon, leaving you lots of time to still explore. If you’re planning your Central America travel itinerary around scuba diving or snorkeling, you should aim to be in the region towards the end of the dry season when underwater visibility is best.

PACK LIKE A PRO ON YOUR NEXT CENTRAL AMERICA TRIP!

Safety in central america.

Central America has a notorious reputation when it comes to crime. Countries like Guatemala, El Salvador, and Honduras, often have the highest homicide rates in the world.

It’s rare for travelers to be involved in dangerous gang violence, especially if you stick to the tourist trails. Be safe, don’t wander around the cities at night, and try to arrive at a new destination in daylight.

Central America travel can be more dangerous than other regions, but be careful, and you’ll be fine. If you do get into trouble, hand over any belongings and don’t put up a fight. Ask locals and other travelers for advice, and if someone says you need a police escort to go hiking, then you probably do.

Don’t let these warnings scare you from this part of the world. Instead, be prepared and you’ll have a fantastic time. We have some tried and trusted advice to keep you safe, so be sure to read our  25 Essential Safety Tips for Travel .

CENTRAL AMERICA TRAVEL: BOOKING RESOURCES

Central america travel guide: related articles.

Looking for more info? Check out all the articles we’ve written on travel to Central America and start planning your dream trip.

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Touropia Travel

Discover the World

10 Best Places to Visit in Central America

By Kay Pierce · Last updated on April 26, 2024

Central America is the thin section of land that links the North American continent with the South American continent. The region is made up of seven small, mostly tropical countries that would be easy to skip on a map. Yet they represent a complex mixture of cultures, ancient ruins, tropical wildlife, active volcanoes and great beaches.

Mexico is occasionally considered part of Central America due to the language and cultural heritage it shares with several of its southern neighbors. This list of best places to visit in Central America however, focuses only on the countries of Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica and Panama.

Map of Central America

10. Leon, Nicaragua

A thriving university town and one of the country’s oldest and largest cities, Leon is Nicaragua’s political and intellectual center. Situated along the Chiquito River northwest of the capital city, Managua, Leon is rich in Spanish colonial architecture as well as arts and culture, and teeming in students and backpackers.

Easily explored by walking and biking, Leon offers plenty of sightseeing opportunities. The city boasts more colonial churches than other Nicaraguan city, and visitors can tour several of these churches to admire artistic works and check out the tombs of important historical figures like that of the country’s most beloved poet, Rubén Darío. Among these churches is the Leon Cathedral, one of the largest in Central America. Other significant landmarks in Leon are Guadalupe Cemetery, Guadalupe Bridge and the Sutiava Rural House. Also known for its treasure trove of art, Leon has several museums, art centers and many public murals.

Located just a few miles inland of the Pacific Ocean, Leon is also home to popular beaches like Poneloya and Las Peñitas, which offer water activities and nightlife options. Just outside of the city, visitors can hire ruletos (trucks operating as buses) to the nearby volcanoes, rivers and mangrove forests to enjoy hiking, kayaking and wildlife viewing.

As a city that is host to students from all over the world, Leon features a variety of dining choices to suit every taste and budget. The market is a good place to find local dishes such as fried cheese, beans and rice, and cheese-stuffed plantains. Also plentiful are bars, clubs and dance halls throbbing with salsa dancing.

9. Copan, Honduras

Once an important Mayan center of government, art, culture and astronomy, Copan today is a large complex consisting of two large pyramids, several plazas, a ball court and numerous stone temples, altars and stelae, which are famous for their hieroglyphics and intricate carvings that depict history, events, beliefs and customs of the ancient Mayans.

8. Arenal Volcano, Costa Rica

Until the past few years, Arenal was the most active volcano in Costa Rica, and it’s frequent, small explosions once provided incredible shows of spewing lava. However, in 2010, Arenal’s cycle entered into a resting phase, putting an indeterminate pause on the eruptions. Nevertheless, the area surrounding Arenal still offers plenty of outstanding sights and exciting activities.

7. Granada, Nicaragua

One of Nicaragua’s largest cities, Granada is also one of the country’s oldest and most historically important centers, featuring a wealth of Spanish history and well-preserved colonial architecture. Located in western Nicaragua along the shores of Lake Nicaragua, Granada offers tourists plenty to see and do from sightseeing to outdoor recreation and arts and culture.

A tour of the city center awards sights of multicolored colonial buildings, landmarks, old churches, a Spanish fort and a lively market buzzing with vendors selling produce and handicrafts. Museums and art galleries showcase the city’s history, art, culture and production of cigars and chocolate.

Granada’s Central Park is a wide open green space with food kiosks where people can relax and enjoy picnics and outdoor recreation. Nearby Lake Nicaragua and its many islets offer fishing, swimming, boating, horseback riding and archaeological sites, while a little further out, volcanoes and rainforest offer hiking, canopy tours and wildlife viewing.

6. Panama City

Panama’s capital and largest city, Panama City , is a concentration of modern high-rise towers rising up from a surrounding tropical rainforest. A vibrant, cosmopolitan city made prosperous by the development of the Panama Canal, Panama City is one of the best places to visit in Central America.

While a visit to the city’s most famous attraction, the Panama Canal, ranks at the top of most sightseeing itineraries, exploring the cobblestone streets and colonial buildings of the historic quarter, Casco Viejo, is also a must-do.

5. Antigua Guatemala

Set against the pictorial backdrop of three imposing volcanoes in the central highlands of Guatemala, the beautiful, old colonial town of Antigua is one of the country’s top tourist destinations.

A major center for learning the Spanish language, Antigua provides a plethora of impressive sights and activities. Just a simple stroll through the city center awards views of spectacular architecture, historic churches and prominent landmarks like the Santa Catalina Arch.

4. Ambergris Caye

The largest of Belize’s several hundred islands, Ambergris Caye is a dreamy, tropical place where shorts and flip-flops are the dress code, golf carts are the mode of transportation, and lazing away on sandy white beaches is the primary activity.

A short plane flight or ferry ride from Belize City, Ambergris Caye is one of Belize’s top travel destinations because it presents the ultimate Caribbean getaway with classic beaches, world-class accommodations, fabulous dining and ultra relaxation.

3. Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, Costa Rica

Located in central Costa Rica, the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is one of the country’s most coveted tourist destinations due to its astonishing natural beauty and abundance of activities including ziplining and canopy tours.

The reserve however is most famous for its extraordinary biodiversity: Around 400 species of birds are found here, more than 100 species of mammals including howler and capuchin monkeys and 1,200 species of amphibians and reptiles. Along with the mega-diversity of wildlife, there are 2,500 species of plants, 420 of which are orchids.

2. Roatan, Honduras

A prominent scuba diving destination and cruise ship port-of-call, Roatan is the largest of the Bay Islands, off the east coast of Honduras. Surrounded by the second-largest barrier reef in the world, Roatan is a prime spot for diving and snorkeling. What’s more, the island’s beaches provide an array of activities from swimming to kayaking and dolphin watching.

1. Tikal, Guatemala

Located in the tropical rainforest of the Petén province in northern Guatemala, Tikal was one of the largest cities of the ancient Mayan civilization. Archaeologists estimate that, at its peak, Tikal’s population ranged from 50,000 to 100,000 inhabitants.

Among the many Mayan sites in Central America, Tikal is perhaps the most breathtaking due to its jungle setting with impressive temples poking through the canopy. Visitors can climb to the top of a few of the pyramids and get panoramic views from above the treetops.

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Reader interactions.

December 28, 2019 at 6:59 am

I have visited three of your top ten… Antigua, Roatan, and Granada. I make my way most of the time through El Salvador, never had an issue. However, my heart belongs to the Bay Islands and frequently visit, every 3-4 months.

June 26, 2018 at 6:07 pm

Where’s my country El Salvador? It’s not as dangerous as Honduras.

July 6, 2016 at 10:28 am

El Salvador is the most dangerous country you can go to in Central America, I can see why it is not here. I don’t think it’s worth the risk. Yes, Honduras as well. Guatemala is dangerous as well but not in the tourist areas, just stay away from the capital. A place that was not mentioned here from Guatemala is Chemuc Champay (sorry if I misspelled that), siete altares, and Laguna Lechua. Also, if you like seeing other cucltures, try going to Livingston, where you can enjoy the Garifuna culture.

April 14, 2016 at 3:21 pm

El Salvador is the forgotten pardise! Try to go! It has the perfect climate, good food and the nicest people in Central America! Seeing is believing! you will never know if you never ever go!

March 7, 2016 at 4:22 pm

Guatemala is the best country in central America to go travel.I reccomend this place for anyone to go.

January 24, 2016 at 6:57 pm

You said they are easy to skip on a map and of course you did you skiped El Salvador

May 24, 2014 at 3:11 am

Belize is a great place!

February 23, 2014 at 12:17 am

Planning to trip very soon to Belize and would like more travel info.

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Central America Travel Guide

Looking for an in-depth Central America travel guide ?

Then you’re in the right place!

Central America may be a small region, but it is home to seven of the most beautiful countries in the world.

From tropical rainforests to golden sand beaches to active volcanos, the region’s biodiversity makes it a top spot for ecotourism and outdoor adventures. The area also has a rich history and culture that you can see first-hand today in well-preserved Indigenous villages and colonial cities.

There’s so much to explore in Central America that it’s often hard to know where to start!

Many travelers visit Central America to experience the country’s natural beauty. The region’s coastline is home to some of the most stunning — and in some cases least-trafficked — beaches in the world.

Central America is also home to many scuba diving hot spots thanks to its colorful marine life and underwater sights. The Bay Islands in Honduras (including the main islands of Roatan , Utila, and Guanaja) are particularly popular among divers with tons of diving sights to explore.

Each country also has its own system of national parks that preserve the local flora and fauna.

For instance, Manuel Antonio National Park on Costa Rica ‘s Pacific Coast is one not to miss if you’re an animal lover. The park is home to 109 species of mammals and 184 species of birds, including white-faced monkeys, sloths, and more.

Central America’s cities are teeming with life and definitely worth a few spots on your itinerary.

In Panama , you can visit Panama City to explore a modern metropolis full of shimmering skyscrapers alongside old colonial buildings and cobblestone streets in the Casco Viejo neighborhood.

Leon, the artistic and intellectual hub of Nicaragua , is full of historic sights and public murals that you’ll definitely want to capture for Instagram.

And you’ll definitely want to make a stop in Antigua, Guatemala to experience one of the best-preserved Spanish colonial cities in Latin America.

Keep reading to dive into resources that will help you with planning a trip to Central America.

Note: This ultimate guide to Central America travel contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

Central America Map

Use this Central America travel map to begin planning your trip to this incredible region!

Click here for an interactive Google Map version of the above graphic.

Costa Rica Travel Guide

No Central America trip itinerary would be complete without a few active travel adventures in Costa Rica, like…

La Fortuna Tours: Rafting & Visiting An Organic Farm In Costa Rica

Costa Rica Adventure: Coffee & Cloud Forests In Magnificent Monteverde

From Solo To Sidekicks: Notes On My Central America Group Travel Adventure

Guatemala Travel Guide

These Guatemala experiences showcase some of the best things to do in Central America !

Hiking Indian’s Nose At Sunrise In Lake Atitlan, Guatemala

Food, Culture & Traveling Beyond The Guidebook In Guatemala

The Truth About Hiking Guatemala’s Pacaya Volcano

San Pedro La Laguna: Where Time Stands Still & The Party Never Stops In Guatemala

Earth Lodge: A Soul-Finding Farmstay In The Mountains Of Guatemala

6 Essential Guatemala Travel Tips

Why Guatemala Should Be Your Next Trip

Honduras Travel Guide

Looking for the best places to go in Central America ? Here is why Honduras should be on your list!

Exploring The Caribbean Side Of Honduras On Roatan Island

Copan, Honduras: An Amazing Day Exploring Mayan Ruins In The World’s Most Dangerous Country

Nicaragua Travel Guide

Looking for the best vacation spots in Central America ? Check out these Nicaragua experiences:

Nicaragua Adventures: Hiking The Active La Concepcion Volcano On Ometepe Island

Volcanic Adventures Outside Of Granada, Nicaragua

How To Volunteer While Learning Spanish In Nicaragua

Panama Travel Guide

If you’re wondering where to go in Central America , here is why Panama should be on your list:

Hiking In Panama: The Best Trails In Boquete

How To Plan An Unforgettable Panama Itinerary (Experiences Included!)

Here Is What It’s Like To Live With An Indigenous Tribe In Panama

Best Places To Stay In Bocas del Toro For Sustainable Travelers

Top Central America Tours

Explore Central American tourism & culture with a local through these recommended excursions:

• Monkey Island tour from Panama City (Panama)
• San Blas Island-Hopping and Snorkel Tour Visit 3 Islands (Panama)
• Lake Atitlán Sightseeing Cruise with Transport from Guatemala City (Guatemala)
• Sunrise Hike to the Indian Nose from San Pedro La Laguna (Guatemala)
• Cave Tubing and Zipline Adventure from Belize City (Belize)
• Saint Herman’s Cave Hiking and Blue Hole Tour from Belize City (Belize)
• Day Trip to the Mayan Ruins of Copan from San Pedro Sula (Honduras)
• Bay Islands Exploration: Roatan Caribbean Coast Jungle & Beach ATV Adventure from West Bay (Honduras)
• Arenal Volcano and Tabacón Hot Springs Day Trip from San Jose (Costa Rica)
• Cerro Negro and Volcano Sand Boarding from León (Nicaragua)
• Santa Ana Volcano Hiking Tour + Coatepeque Lake Sightseeing (El Salvador)

Click here for a full list of Central America travel tours !

Renting A Car In Central America

Need a rental car for your Central America trip?

Use Discover Cars to quickly compare your car rental options.

Central America Hotels

Click here to browse hotels in Central America!

Prefer self-contained stays? 

Click here to check out unique local rentals!

You can also use this map to search for local stays. The map is set to San Jose, but you can easily change it to your specific destination:

Central America Travel Insurance

It doesn’t matter if you’re traveling solo or with a group on a Central America tour. When visiting Central America — or any other country in the world — make sure to get travel insurance to protect your health and safety.

In my opinion, the best travel medical insurance for travelers is SafetyWing as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country).

Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

With coverage, you’ll have peace of mind as you embark on your Central America itinerary.

Click my referral link here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks .

Central America Travel Guide FAQ

Below, find answers to frequently asked questions about traveling Central America .

Q: Which countries make up Central America?

Here is a full list of Central American countries:

• El Salvador

Q: Where is Central America located?

Central America is located between Mexico and South America and is the southernmost region of North America.

Q: Is Central America safe for travel?

In general, Central America is pretty safe for travelers. Some countries and areas have higher rates of crime and violence than others and, as with any other destination, there are certain safety tips you should follow wherever you go.

The Northern Triangle — consisting of Guatemala, Honduras, and El Salvador — sees more crime than other countries in the region, particularly in big cities, so you’ll want to stay particularly vigilant if any of those countries are on your itinerary.

While traveling in Central America, you’ll want to stay aware of your surroundings, avoid wearing anything flashy or displaying any obvious signs of wealth, avoid going out alone at night, and be particularly careful on public transportation.

For specific safety tips for each country in Central America, check out our individual destination pages linked above.

You can also check our our guide to avoiding pickpockets .

Q: How long do you need to travel Central America?

The length of your trip to Central America certainly depends on which countries you want to explore and your preferred style of travel. If you’re looking to do a full tour of the region, making your way down from Southern Mexico to Panama (or vice versa), you’ll need at least a month or two to see everything.

Though the region is comparatively small, it can take several hours to travel between destinations by car or bus thanks to winding roads and inconsistent infrastructure.

Flights within the region are available but can be expensive and limited in certain areas.

You’ll also want to spend a few days in each destination to take in everything it has to offer.

If you don’t have a month or more to commit to a full Central American tour, you can easily travel between one or two countries in the region over a week or two. Group tours also offer multi-country itineraries over shorter periods of time that take some of the guess work out of traveling through the region.

Q: Is Central America expensive to travel?

It’s generally quite inexpensive to travel in Central America. Again, this depends on your itinerary and destinations of choice; things in Costa Rica and Panama tend to be a bit more expensive than in other Central American countries.

The average traveler to Central America should budget about $60 to $70 per day for things like accommodation, food, transportation, activities, and other daily expenses.

Q: What is the safest Central American country to visit?

Costa Rica and Panama are considered the safest countries to visit in Central America. Costa Rica is ranked as the 33rd most peaceful country in the world according to the Global Peace Index and experiences lower rates of crime and violence than other countries in the region.

While there are several areas of Panama that do experience more violence (specifically the Mosquito Coast and Darien region along the Colombian border), the country is quite safe overall.

Regardless of your itinerary, though, you should keep the general safety tips mentioned above in mind.

Q: What is the best time to visit Central America?

The best time to visit Central America is during the dry season between December and April.

Temperatures throughout the region are generally warm and comfortable, although this will vary depending on elevation.

Rain is less frequent in these months and you are less likely to have your trip washed out by a hurricane.

Q: What are some top things to do in Central America?

Central America is one of the best places on Earth for outdoor exploration. With a gorgeous environment that includes rainforests, beaches, volcanos, mountains, and more you’ll want to spend plenty of time outside during your Central American adventure.

Divers should visit countries like Honduras, Panama, and Belize for their clear waters and abundance of tropical fish. Belize is also home to the second-largest barrier reef in the world, with tons of colorful coral and marine life to explore.

Almost every country in Central America has its own national parks full of flora and fauna you won’t want to pass up. You can also hike (and even surf!) active volcanos in countries like Costa Rica and Nicaragua, where you can hike Volcan Concepcion .

Each country in Central America also has a rich history and culture of its own that is absolutely worth exploring.

Antigua in Guatemala is one of the best-preserved colonial cities in Latin America; the city truly looks like its frozen in time with its colorful buildings and cobblestone streets. Here you’ll find churches that date back to the 1500s, shops full of artisan goods, and a whole museum dedicated to chocolate.

Central America also has many Mayan ruins where you can pay your respects to the area’s Indigenous history. Copan is home to one of the best-known sites in Honduras while the Tikal Temple in Guatemala is an absolutely incredible sight.

Q: What is some important Central America travel advice to keep in mind?

Aside from the safety tips listed above, there are a few pieces of travel advice to keep in mind when it comes to Central America.

Wherever you go in the region, you’ll want to pack high-test bug spray, ideally formulated with DEET. Aside from being annoying, mosquitoes in Central America have been known to carry dangerous diseases like malaria and the Zika virus and in a tropical environment, they’re pretty hard to avoid. A good quality insect repellent is your best defense against disease, even if you don’t think you’ll need it.

Sunscreen is also absolutely key, particularly if you’re planning on spending time at the beach. Remember, you’re probably closer to the equator than usual.

Even if you’re incredibly careful about what you’re eating and drinking in Central America, stomach issues happen to the best of us. Be sure to pack any medications you might need along the way like Pepto Bismol and Immodium. Don’t rely on local stores having what you need in stock, particularly if you’re traveling to a more remote location.

While most countries in Central America do not require any vaccinations to enter the country, you may want to get certain vaccinations or preventative medicines depending on your itinerary. If you’re unsure, talk to your doctor or local travel medicine professional before your trip.

Q: What tips would you give someone backpacking Central America?

There are a few tips to keep in mind when backpacking Central America.

While restaurants are generally pretty inexpensive throughout the region, you’ll save a lot of money by shopping at local markets and preparing your own food at your hostel or on the road. This will help you stretch your food budget over a longer trip. Street food is also quite cheap and a great option for snacks and meals during the day.

Buses are also the most cost-effective way to travel between destinations, though it may take you longer to get from Point A to Point B.

You’ll absolutely want to pack a lock and a small medical kit with bandages, hand sanitizer, antibacterial creams, and any necessary medications in your pack.

A travel water purifier or purifying water bottle is also necessary for areas where the water is unsafe to drink. This is crucial for times when you may not be able to find bottled or otherwise purified water.

Laundromats and laundry services can also be hard to come by throughout the region so you may want to pack some small packets of detergent in case you need to wash some garments in the sink of your hostel or AirBnB.

On a similar note, pack more underwear than you think you’ll need. You don’t want to be caught without a fresh pair!

What would you add to this Central America travel guide?

Enjoyed this guide to traveling Central America? Pin it for later!

Top 20 Places to Visit in Central America

by Julie | Jul 6, 2022 | Belize , Costa Rica , El Salvador , Guatemala , Honduras , Nicaragua , Panama , Travel

You’ve made the decision to travel to Central America. Now the question is where to go. What places should you add to your Central America itinerary? In this post, I’m going to share with you the top 20 places to visit in Central America for those who love culture, history, food, architecture, nature, wildlife, tropical islands, and a bit of adventure. I spent a year traveling and living in the region and these are my 20 favorite places.

Disclosure:  This post may contain affiliate links.  As an Amazon Associate and a Bookshop.org Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.  Please see this website’s  Disclosure  for more info.

Countries in Central America

There are 7 countries in Central America: Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, and Panama.

What about Mexico?

Is Mexico Part of Central America?

Some people consider Mexico as part of Central America. I decided not to include it here. If I had included it, this list would be 50 places to visit in Central America and half of them would be in Mexico. I’ll write a whole separate blog post on places to visit in Mexico.

Criteria for making a list of the best places in Central America

This list of best places to visit in Central America is based on my I spent a year traveling and living in Central America . Everyone has their own likes and dislikes. What I like might not be what you like, or maybe it is. I’m into culture, history, food, architecture, wildlife, and nature. I love beaches, small villages, as well as big cities.

If you’re into the same things I am, then I think you’ll find this list useful in planning your own trip to Central America.

1. San Ignacio, Belize

San Ignacio.

Ever heard of it?

Most people haven’t.

But I guarantee that your time here will be one of the most unforgettable experiences during your trip through Central America.

A small city near the Guatemalan border, San Ignacio makes an excellent base for exploring the many natural and historic wonders of the Cayo District of Belize. Ancient Maya ruins, beautiful pine forests, lush jungles, and mysterious caves.

The highlight of San Ignacio (and perhaps all of Central America) is the adventurous tour of Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) , the Cave of the Stone Sepulchre. Better than any ride at Disneyland , the cave requires you to swim through pools of water and climb over and up rocks and past stalactites and stalagmites for an hour until you come to a huge open chamber. The ground of the chamber is covered in pottery shards and the remains of the sacrificed victims of the ancient Maya. Cool, huh?

The area is also home to 3 unique Mayan ruins : Caracol , Xunantunich , and Cahal Pech.

There are even more caves, rivers, jungles, and forests to explore, making San Ignacio one of the best places in Central America to visit.

Travel Tips for San Ignacio

• For cheap and delicious food, visit the central outdoor market
• Visit the Belize Tourism Board website for the latest entry requirements
• For detailed info on crossing the border into Guatemala, visit my detailed guide here . You can also read about how to cross the border from Guatemala to Belize here .
• You can get loads of travel tips in this San Ignacio Travel Guide

Top things to do in San Ignacio

• ATM Cave tour
• Maya ruins of Caracol , Xunantunich , and Cahal Pech
• A canoe trip through Barton Creek Cave
• For a complete list of 25 things to do in San Ignacio, check out this San Ignacio Travel Guide

Where to stay in San Ignacio

• Budget: Yellow Belly Backpackers
• Mid-range: Martha’s Guesthouse and Maya Mountain Lodge
• Upper-range: San Ignacio Resort Hotel and The Lodge at Chaa Creek

2. Caye Caulker, Belize

The idyllic island of Caye Caulker is one of those places where you originally plan to stay for two or three days but end up staying for five or six .

Why don’t people want to leave? It’s all about the super chill vibe that the island has that makes you forget all about your troubles. There are no cars or motorcycles, the sun is almost always shining, people are friendly, the food (especially, the lobster) is delicious, and the snorkeling and diving are the best in Central America.

If you’ve got time to spare on your Central America travels, then make sure not to miss Caye Caulker.

Travel Tips for Caye Caulker

• You can get to Caye Caulker in a half-day from Flores, Guatemala. Learn how in my guide to getting from Guatemala to Belize.
• Getting from Caye Caulker to San Ignacio or Guatemala is also easy. You can get step-by-step directions in my guide for crossing the border .
• Get your morning coffee and bagel at Ice N’Beans, inexpensive food at Auntie’s Takeout, local breakfast at La Cubana, and lobster at Happy Lobster.
• Visit the Belize Tourism Board website for the most up-to-date entry requirements.

Top things to do in Caye Caulker

• Do a snorkeling tour
• Scuba diving
• Fly over Blue Hole
• Do the 3-day sailing trip with Ragamuffin Tours

Where to stay in Caye Caulker

• Budget: Go Slow Guesthouse and Sophie’s Guesthouse
• Mid-range: Caye Caulker Beach Hotel
• Upper-range: Weezie’s Ocean Front Hotel and Colinda Cabanas

3. Antigua, Guatemala

Hands down Antigua is my favorite place to visit in Central America . It has a bit of something for every kind of traveler: culture, history, food, nature, and adventure . You could easily stay here a week and not run out of things to do.

Antigua was the third capital of Guatemala until an earthquake destroyed the city in 1773, forcing the government and citizens to abandon it and start over in Guatemala City. Luckily for us, the remaining colonial-era buildings and ruins were not bulldozed. After reconstruction and lots of love and dedication, the city was revived.

Today Antigua is a stunningly beautiful city . Streets paved with cobblestones and lined with colorful adobe buildings. All of it is surrounded by mountains, including 3 volcanoes . One volcano, El Fuego, is still erupting every 20 minutes. At night you can sometimes see the lava flowing down the mountain.

Travel Tips for Antigua

• Antigua is pretty safe but still take a taxi or Uber if you need to walk along dark streets late at night after the bars close
• Only use ATMs inside hotels, banks, or shops. The one inside Porta Hotel Antigua allows you to withdraw more money than other ATMs, thus saving you money on fees
• Check out my list of books on Guatemala to learn more about the history and culture of the country.
• For the most up-to-date entry requirements visit the government of Guatemala’s website .

Top things to do in Antigua

• Do the overnight hike to the summit of Volcano Acatenango and El Fuego
• Take a walking tour of the historic center
• Visit the ruins of Antigua
• For a complete list of 32 things to do, visit my Antigua travel guide

Where to stay in Antigua

For a list of the best hotels and hostels, visit my guide to Where to Stay in Antigua

4. Lake Atitlan, Guatemala

Like Antigua, Lake Atitlan has got a bit of something for every kind of traveler : culture, history, art, nature, and adventure.

Plus, it’s just stunningly beautiful.

The lake is surrounded by hills and 3 volcanoes and the shore of the lake is dotted with villages. Each village has its own unique character.

Panajachel is the transportation hub. For getting to know the local Maya culture , visit Santiago Atitlan. San Juan is for those looking for art and handicrafts . For the best views of the volcanoes, stay in Jaibalito or Santa Cruz. San Marcos is the place to go for yoga, meditation , and holistic therapies. If you want to party all night and sleep all day, stay in San Pedro.

You can stay in one village and visit the others by boat. During the day, there are many things to do. Besides exploring the villages, you can kayak , do stand-up paddle boarding , and hike up a volcano .

Travel Tips for Lake Atitlan

• If you’re arriving by shuttle from Mexico, you’ll need to stay overnight in Panajachel as the public boats stop running before the shuttle arrives
• Ask the boat driver how much the fare is BEFORE getting on; the same route can vary in price depending on the boat operator; foreigners pay 5 times as much as locals

Top things to do in Lake Atitlan

• Study Spanish at one of the many language schools around the lake
• Visit the home of Saint Maximon in Santiago
• Hike Indian Nose to watch the sunrise
• For more things to do at Lake Atitlan, check out this complete list

Where to stay in Lake Atitlan

Budget: Hotel Utz Jay (Panajachel) or Casa Ahau (San Marcos)

Mid-range: La Casa del Mundo Hotel (Jaibalito) or Atitlan Sunset Lodge (Santa Cruz)

Upper-range: Hotel Villas Balam Ya (Panajachel) and Anzan Atitlan (San Marcos)

READ FOR MORE INFO: Guide to the Best Places to Stay at Lake Atitlan & Guide to the 50 Best Things to do at Lake Atitlan

5. Flores and Tikal, Guatemala

Every itinerary to Guatemala should include a visit to the ancient Maya ruins of Tikal . Probably one of the top 3 greatest archaeological ruins in Central America.

Tikal was one of the 2 most powerful states during the Maya Classical period. During its height of glory, the leaders built some of the most awe-inspiring temples in the Maya world . After Tikal’s collapse, the jungle covered up its temples and pyramids for centuries. It wasn’t until the nineteenth century that archaeologists began excavating and restoring them. Now they are one of the top places to visit in Central America.

Most tourists base themselves in the municipality of Flores and do Tikal as a day trip. The city is an interesting place in its own right. Situated on an island in the middle of Lake Peten Itza, Flores is connected to the mainland and its sister city of Santa Elena by a causeway.

The small island is charming but with a touch of scruffiness. There are streets of cobblestones, a promenade that rings the island, colorful buildings, some beautiful sunsets, and loads of travel agencies, hotels, and restaurants.

Tikal is not the only thing to do here. There are other ancient ruins like Uxuactun and Yaxha . Kayaking or taking a boat tour of the lake is also popular. A visit to Jorge’s Rope Swing is a fun way to spend your afternoon as well.

But for the more adventurous traveler, the piece-de-resistance is the 5-day/80-km jungle hike to El Mirador ruins and back.

Travel tips for Flores and Tikal

• An alternative to basing yourself in Flores is the lakeside village of El Remate
• Book at least 2 nights at a hotel inside the park of Tikal in order to see the ruins at sunrise and sunset
• To learn about the ancient Maya, check out my list of books on their history and culture .
• Check out my guide on how to enter Guatemala from Belize
• Visit this Flores and Tikal guide for more travel tips

Top things to do in Flores and Tikal

• Watch the sunrise at Tikal
• Go on the El Mirador hike
• Check out this jam-packed list of 20 fun things to do in Flores .

Where to stay near Tikal

• Budget: Alice’s Guesthouse (El Remate), Amina (Flores)
• Middle: Jungle Lodge Tikal Hostal (Tikal)
• Luxury: Las Lagunas Boutique Hotel (12 miles from Flores), Hotel Jungle Lodge Tikal (Tikal)

MORE INFO ON FLORES & TIKAL: Guide to Best Accommodations in Flores & Tikal and Guide to Top Things to Do in Flores & Tikal

6. Chichicastenango, Guatemala

Chichicastenango is a must-stop on a trip through Central America if you’re looking to learn more about the indigenous people of Guatemala . It was the cultural highlight of my trip to Guatemala.

Situated amongst the mountains of the Guatemalan Highlands, the city is famous for its Sunday (and Thursday) markets. The Maya population from around the Highlands flock to the market to sell their wares, buy fruits, vegetables, and everyday items, and worship at the local churches.

Meanwhile, tourists come to shop for souvenirs , take in the Maya culture , photograph the colorful cemetery and vegetable market , and experience the folk religions of Guatemala .

Chichicastenango is definitely one of the most unique places to visit in Central America.

Travel Tips for Chichicastenango

• Hire a guide but make sure they can speak English or your language
• Before taking a photo of a person, ask if it’s ok
• Check out my list of books on Guatemala to learn more about the history and culture of the Maya and their country.
• For more travel tips, check out my travel guide to visiting the market in Chichicastenango

Top Things to Do in Chichicastenango

• Visit Iglesia Santo Tomas
• Tour the cemetery
• For a complete list of things to do, check out my Chichicastenango travel guide .

Where to stay in Chichicastenango

Check on Airbnb for affordable places to stay or stay around Lake Atitlan and visit on a day trip.

MORE INFO ON CHICHI: Guide to Best Accommodations at Lake Atitlan and The Most Practical Guide Ever to Chichicastenango

7.  Copan, Honduras

Nestled in a stunning river valley and surrounded by hills covered in pine trees are the charming city of Copan Ruinas and the nearby ancient Maya ruins of Copan.

Many travelers to Central America wonder if the ruins are worth it?

As someone who’s visited over 20 Maya ruins in Central America, Copan is in my top 5 archaeological sites . While you’ll see magnificent temples and pyramids at Tikal and Chichen Itza, at Copan you’ll see the most beautiful works of art in the Maya world .

There is more to do and see in Copan than just old stones. There’s a fabulous bird sanctuary , natural hot springs , and horseback riding tours through the sun-flower-covered hills.

Travel Tips for Copan

• To help you understand this ancient civilization better, take a look at my books on the ancient Maya
• Getting to El Salvador here requires a few bus changes but it is easily doable on your own. You can read how I did it in my guide to crossing the border from Honduras to El Salvado r.

Top places to visit in Copan

• Copan ruins
• Learn about the Maya fertility rites at the Los Sapos ruins
• Macaw Mountain Bird Park
• Luna Jaguar Hot Springs
• Horseback riding in the mountains outside of Copan

Where to stay in Copan

• Budget: Hostal Iguana Azul (Superb!!!)
• Middle: La Casa de Cafe Bed and Breakfast
• Luxury: Casa Villamil Boutique Hotel or Hotel Marina Copan

8. Lake Yajoa, Honduras

Lake Yajoa is another one of those places in Central America where you plan to stay for 2 or 3 days and end up staying for 5 or even 7 days. It’s so relaxing and beautiful that you just don’t want to leave.

Located about 2 hours from San Pedro Sula, the lake and the surrounding area are home to a plethora of birds, hiking trails, and waterfalls.

It’s also where you’ll find one of the best hostels in Central America : D&D Brewery, a hostel/hotel that is also just like the name suggests a brewery. This will probably be the best beer you’ll drink in Central America. And the food (blueberry pancakes!) is pretty darn good too!

The highlight of Lake Yajoa is the lake itself. Take a kayak out on the lake and paddle along the marshes spotting the birds popping up and flying away.

The other draw is the waterfalls. The view is spectacular. But what’s even cooler is that you can actually walk behind the falls. One of the scariest things I’ve done in Central America.

Honduras has a reputation for being unsafe, but Lake Yajoa and the surrounding towns I found to be as safe as they get.

Definitely don’t overlook this off-the-beaten-path place in Honduras .

Travel Tips for Lake Yajoa

• For the latest info on how to get to Lake Yajoa, visit the D&D Brewery website . They have clear directions on how to get to the lake from other places in Honduras and from other countries.
• Is Honduras safe? Small towns near the Lake like Pena Blanca and Guama are pretty safe. Bigger cities like San Pedro Sula and Tegucigalpa are not as safe.
• Check online to see what the most up-to-date entry requirements are for Honduras .

Top things to do at Lake Yajoa

• Rent a kayak and paddle around the lake
• Visit Pulhapanzak Waterfalls
• Go hiking and/or bird watching at Parque Nacional Cerro Azul

Where to stay at Lake Yajoa

D&D Brewery has everything from dorm rooms to inexpensive private rooms for $20 as well as mid-range and luxury cabins. Book your accommodations on the D&D website .

9. Bay Islands, Honduras (Roatan or Utila)

If you’re looking for an affordable snorkeling and scuba diving destination , then the Bay Islands are the place to be. Along the coast of the islands is the world’s second-largest barrier reef teeming with some of the most diverse sea life on the planet.

There are 3 Bay Islands and 5 smaller islands. Most tourists just visit either Roatan or Utila .  

Roatan is the bigger of the two islands. It’s more developed and attracts a more diverse crowd from cruise shippers to independent budget travelers.

Roatan has better beaches than Utila. The best beach is at West Bay— a nice long white sandy beach next to crystal clear calm waters . Rent a lounge chair for the price of a drink and spend the day doing absolutely nothing. Don’t leave too soon as the sunsets in West Bay are spectacula r.

Utila is known for its whale sharks and cheap diving courses . It’s smaller and less developed than Roatan. There’s basically one town around a bay and the rest is just wilderness.

Travel tips for the Bay Islands

• There’s an ATM at the ferry terminal in La Ceiba. Get cash before heading to the islands.
• Ferries to Roatan leave twice a day at 7:00 am and 5:00 pm
• For the most up-to-date info on entry requirements for Honduras check online.

Top things to do in the Bay Islands

• Lie on the beach and do nothing
• Visit Victor’s Monkey and Sloth Sanctuary
• Do a day tour to Little French Key

Where to stay in Roatan

Budget : Roatan Backpackers Hostel or Hotel Chillies

Middle: Mr. Tucan Hotel

Luxury: Ibagari Boutique Hotel

10. Ruta de las Flores (Route of Flowers), El Salvador

Located near the border with Guatemala, Ruta de las Flores is El Salvador’s #1 tourist destination.

The Route of Flowers is a road that winds its way through the Apaneca Mountain Range. Along the route are a series of charming villages with cobblestoned streets, hills cloaked in coffee fields , volcanoes topped with craters filled of sulfur green water, waterfalls with pools to take a dip in, and hiking trails that take you to picturesque lagoons.

The three most popular villages to visit are Juayua , Apaneca , and Ataco .

With its fair share of affordable accommodations, Juayua is a popular place for backpackers. It has a lively central plaza and a popular food fair on Sundays .

Apaneca is another charming but less touristy village . It’s got the typical streets paved in cobblestoned streets, and colonial-era adobe buildings. You’ll also find a food court serving delicious local dishes, a beautiful white-washed church in the central plaza, a fun maze, hiking trails to lagoons, and a coffee plantation you can visit.

In my opinion, Ataco is the real gem . It’s a village filled with colorful murals depicting local culture , artisanal markets, colonial-era adobe buildings, trendy restaurants, and cool cafes where you can enjoy Salvadoran coffee.

Travel Tips for the Ruta de las Flores

• Spend a few days along the Route staying in either Juayua or Ataco or both.
• You can easily get around by public bus (Bus #249), but if you’re short on time, you can hire a car and driver or rent a car.
• Where are the flowers? Yeah, don’t expect them. I was there and didn’t see any even though other bloggers say that February is the month to see them.

Things to do along the Ruta de las Flores

• Fill up on some delicious local food at the weekend Food Festival in Juayua
• Experience El Salvadoran coffee with a visit to a coffee farm and one of the lovely cafes
• Check out the murals in Ataco
• Visit Ruta de las Seite Cascadas

Where to stay on the Ruta de las Flores

Budget: Hostal Dona Mercedes

Middle: Hotel Casa Pino

Luxury: Casa Degraciela Hotel Boutique

11. Santa Ana and the Santa Ana Volcano, El Salvador

Santa Ana is the second largest city in El Salvador . It’s safe, smaller, and easier to get around than the capital city of San Salvador. But it’s not overly touristy so you can get a sense of the local culture. Walk around the old part of the city. Hang out in the central plaza watching the locals.

Probably the main reason for visiting Santa Ana is that it’s a great place to base yourself for exploring the best destinations in El Salvador .

The #1 thing to do while in Santa Ana is to climb Santa Ana Volcano . At the top is a beautiful crater lake.

You can also do the Ruta de las Flores from Santa Ana on a day trip.

That’s not all! There is a waterfall that’s also hot springs, a lake formed out of a volcano, and ancient Maya ruins.

Travel Tips for Santa Ana

• You can hire a car, driver, and guide to climb Santa Ana for US$20 or do it on your own with public transportation
• Explore the old part of Santa Ana. Observe the people—everyone in the city is selling something
• There is no one central bus station but instead several stations throughout the city. It’s hard then knowing where to catch your bus. If you ask several people, you’ll get multiple answers.

Top Things to Do in Santa Ana

• Hike to the top of Santa Ana Volcano
• Visit the villages of the Ruta de las Flores
• Go swimming at Salto de Malacatiupan
• Check out Lago de Coatepeque

Where to stay in Santa Ana

Budget: Hostal Casa Verde or Velvet Hostal (Superb!!!!)

Middle: Hostal Las Puertas

Luxury: Remfort Hotel

12. Ometepe, Nicaragua

Ometepe is another one of those places in Central America that are hard to leave . I planned to stay for 3 days and ended up staying 10. One of many reasons is that you get a really good deal on accommodations on the island.

Looking at the island on a map, it’s already picturesque . In person, it’s even better.

The island is in the shape of a barbell. On each end of the barbell are 2 volcanoes . Both make for rewarding albeit difficult hikes .

But if you’re not that ambitious, that’s ok too. You can just as well while away your day lying in a hammock or eating chocolate , bird watching .

The highlight of my trip to Ometepe was kayaking and wildlife spotting on the lake and the Rio Isliatan.

The other fun and adventurous thing to do is to rent a scooter or ATV and drive around the island. The roads are relatively flat, traffic is little, and roads are in good shape, making it an excellent place for first-timers to try out a scooter. 

End at least one of your days by watching one of Omotepe’s colorful sunsets .

Travel Tips for Ometepe

• The side where Merida is has nice sunsets
• There is no public transportation on Sundays, so avoid arriving on that day if you’re staying somewhere other than the port of Moyogalpa.
• Want to know how to get to Nicaragua? Visit my step-by-step guide on crossing the land border into Nicaragua.
• Get the most recent entry requirements for Nicaragua on the government website .

Top things to do in Ometepe

• Rent a scooter or ATV and drive around the island
• Kayak along Rio Isliatan
• Swim at the natural swimming hole of Ojo de Agua Ometepe

Where to stay in Ometepe

*So many good deals on accommodations on Ometepe that you’ve got a wealth of choices.

Budget: Finca Mystica (dorms) (Merida) or Rosa’s Lake Cabin (Merida) or El Pital (Balgue)

Middle: Finca Mystica  or Xalli Beach House (Altagracia)

Luxury: Ananda Guesthouse (Balgue) or Hotel San Juan Ometepe (Altagracia)

13. Granada, Nicaragua

Founded in 1524, Granada is one of the oldest cities in Central America . It is also one of my favorite. Wander around its cobblestoned streets and you’ll understand why.

Compared to Antigua, it’s less Americanized and less touristy . Yet just like Antigua, the city has got its fill of colorful colonial buildings with red-tiled roofs , hip restaurants and cafes , old baroque churches , and bustling markets.

Begin your visit to Granada by just exploring the city on foot. Get lost if you can. Hit the central market , the Plaza Mayor , and end your afternoon with a visit to the Convent and Museum of San Francisco .

If you’re not exhausted after a day of sightseeing, head out in the evening to look inside the cauldron of the active Volcano Masayo .

Set aside one day for a kayaking tour of the 365 islands that make up Isletas de Granada and another day along the trails up Volcano Mombacho .

For those who want to explore the culture and food of Nicaragua, take a chocolate workshop at the Chocolate Museum .

Finally, one of the highlights of Nicaragua is an overnight stay at one of the lakeside lodges along the shores of Laguna de Apoyo.

Granada is one of the best places in Central America for those who love culture and history.

Travel tips for Granada

• Granada has several locations where buses depart. Ask your hotel or hostel for the most up-to-date info on where your bus leaves. Locations change.
• Want to know how to get to Nicaragua ? Visit my step-by-step guide on crossing the land border into Nicaragua.

Top things to do in Granada

• Visit Volcano Masaya
• Kayak around Isletas de Granada
• Learn how to make chocolate at the Chocolate Museum
• Spend the night at Lago de Apoyo

Where to stay in Granada

Budget: Hostel de Boca en Boca or El Arca de Noe (Very Good!) or Casa Brickell

Middle: Hotel con Corazon or Hotel La Polvora

Luxury: Hotel Boutique Adela (Superb!!!!) or Casa Bubu Guesthouse

14. Corn Islands, Nicaragua

Just when you think that there are no more undeveloped tropical paradises left on this planet, you stumble upon the Corn Islands. Located on the Caribbean side of Nicaragua , the Corn Islands consist of two islands: Big Corn and Little Corn.

Big Corn is more developed but has more of a local flare. It also has the best beach in Central America .

Little Corn, on the other hand, is an undeveloped gem . There are no cars or motorcycles on the island. People travel by foot along windy pathways through the jungle. No ATMs or banks. No stress. Just a nice mellow Caribbean vibe.

A simple private bungalow right on the beach can be had for only $20 .

There’s not much to do on the Corn Islands. And that is NOT a bad thing AT ALL. Basically, you can spend your days as you would in any other island paradise: lying on the beach, reading a book in a hammock, swimming, snorkeling, and diving in its turquoise waters, or chowing down on some fresh tropical fruit and seafood .

Travel Tips for Corn Islands

• Getting there involves a flight from Managua to Big Corn and a 30-minute boat ride to Little Corn. For budget travelers, you can take a long bus ride overland to Bluefield and then a precarious and even longer boat ride to Big Corn.
• Visit the Nicaragua government website for the most up-to-date entry requirements

Top things to do on the Corn Islands

• Soaking up the sunny rays while lazing on Otto Beach
• Diving or snorkeling
• Planning for ways to never leave the island

Where to stay in the Corn Islands

Budget: Carlito’s Place (Little Corn) or Grace’s Cool Spot (Little Corn)

Middle: Oce a n View (Big Corn)

Luxury: Yemaya Reefs (Little Corn) or Little Corn Beach and Bungalow (Little Corn) or Arena Beach Hotel (Big Corn)

15. Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica

If you’re looking for a place where you can easily see wildlife without hiring an expensive guide , go to Manuel Antonio. The coastal area boasts Costa Rica’s smallest but most popular park: Parque Nacional Manuel Antonio . Yes, that probably means the park is more crowded than others. But there’s a reason people come and why you should as well.

The park was the only place I was able to see 2 different types of monkeys : howler and for the first time, capuchin. The capuchins weren’t just high up in the tree either. They were right in front of me along a trail.

I also saw sloths without a guide , a task that you’ll find almost impossible to accomplish in Costa Rica.

You’ll find that you can see scarlet macaws just about anywhere around Manuel Antonio.

Travel Tips for Manuel Antonio

• Getting to the park in Manuel Antonio and the hotels and hostels along the way is a piece of cake. There’s a bus that travels the route frequently. You can download this app onto your phone. The app shows you where the buses are in real-time.
• The park limits the number of visitors coming in at one time, so you need to buy your tickets ahead of time from the park website . You also need to indicate your arrival time.
• The park is closed on Tuesdays!
• The official Costa Rica Tourism website has up-to-date info on the country’s entry requirements.

What to do in Manuel Antonio

• Visit Parque Nacional Manuel Antonio – bring your bathing suit!
• Do a mangrove and ocean paddle boarding/kayaking tour
• Go river rafting on the Rio Savegre

Where to stay in Manuel Antonio

Budget: Casa Quepos (superb!) or Hostel Plinio

Middle: Peace of Paradise or Guest House Pura Vida

Luxury: Costa Verde or Santa Juana Lodge and Nature Reserve

16. Corcovado  and Drake Bay, Costa Rica

For something more wild and undeveloped in Costa Rica, head to Drake Bay, where you’ll find the country’s most remote and I think best park , Corcovado National Park.

Getting to the Bay is half the fun (NOT) . After a bus ride to Serpia, you’ll need to take an hour-long and often very wet boat ride to Drake Bay town or wherever your lodging is. There’s no dock, so you’ll need to wade through water to get to shore. Or you can simply fly in if you have the cash.

For convenience, you can stay in the small town of Drake (also known as Agujitas). A more rugged and adventurous alternative is to stay outside of town in a lodge or hostel under the canopy of the rainforest where you’ll be greeted each morning by the howls of monkeys and in the afternoon by the squawking of macaws .

The primary reason to come to Corcovado is to spot wildlife.

This supposedly is the only place in Costa Rica where you’ll find all 4 of the country’s primates : the howler, spider, capuchin, and the endangered and very cute Central American squirrel monkey. I only saw the last three of these.

But you can very easily see another endangered animal, Baird’s tapir .

The park overall is “home to a staggering 370 species of birds, 140 species of mammals, and thousands of insect species ” ( Lonely Planet Costa Rica ).

Travel tips for Corcovado

• There are no ATMs in Drake Bay so bring cash and boat drivers do not take $100 bills .
• The boat from Sierpe to Drake Bay leaves at 4:00 pm . Arrange with your accommodations to pick you up when you arrive in Drake Bay or your lodgings

Top things to do in Corcovado

• Visit Parque Nacional Corcovado
• Go snorkeling or diving around Isla del Cano
• Take a night tour of the rainforest with The Bug  Lady

Where to stay in Corcovado

Budget: Corcovado and Drake Inn (Superb for solo traveler!!!)

Middle: Hotel Finca Maresia or Bella Vista Corcovado or Life for Life Hostel

Luxury: Drake Bay Greenleaf

17. Monteverde, Costa Rica

After traveling in sweltering Central America for a few weeks or months, arriving in Monteverde is like an ice-cold glass of water on a hot day. Located at a higher elevation, Monteverde has a more temperate climate , unlike the rest of Costa Rica and its neighbor Nicaragua. It can sometimes get downright cold in the evenings.

The weather is not the only reason to go to Monteverde, though. First, the green and lush mountains are stunningly beautiful.

Second, there’s the wildlife-filled cloud forest , an experience completely different from a rainforest that must be experienced to understand.

Third, it’s the home of one of the most beautiful birds in the world: the Quetzal . The chance to see this green, red and blue bird is an unforgettable moment.

Fourth, it’s got some of the best ziplining in the world .

Travel Tips for Monteverde

• Join a guided tour in order to spot the quetzal and wildlife in general
• If coming from Nicaragua, don’t try to get to Monteverde on the same day. Stay overnight in Liberia and then make your way to Monteverde. It takes a long time and buses are infrequent.

Top things to do in Monteverde

• Visit the Monteverde Cloud Forest
• Join a bird-watching tour at Corre Cancha Reserve
• Go ziplining

Where to stay in Monteverde

Budget: Hostel Cattleya or Hakuna Matata Guesthouse

Middle: Los Pinos Lodge and Garden or Casa Jungle Monteverde

Luxury: Koora Hotel or Chira Glamping Monteverde

18. Puerto Viejo and the Caribbean Coast, Costa Rica

Costa Rica has so many beach destinations to choose from. However, my favorite is the laid-back Caribbean Coast around Puerto Viejo. This tropical paradise is another place you find yourself lingering in longer than planned. It’s got a friendly and laid-back Caribbean vibe that is contagious.

The coast includes a series of small towns interspersed with palm-fringed crescent beaches . Starting in Cahuita and ending in Manzanillo, pick your base or two to settle down in and explore the area. You can rent a bike, take the public bus, or rent a car to get around.

Most of the beaches in the area are ideal for surfing . But Punta Uva has a pretty good beach for swimming .

But sand and sun are not all that the area has to offer the traveler. There are 2 parks filled with wildlife, Cahuita and Manzanillo . The former has the added bonus of being free (donation is expected), making it by far the cheapest park in Costa Rica.

For those who love food and wildlife, take a chocolate tour at a cacao farm at Caribeans Chocolate and Coffee. The tour goes through a jungle brimming with sloths, monkeys, frogs, and toucans .

Finally, you can visit Jaguar Rescue Center . This fabulous place rescues and rehabilitates injured animals before releasing them back into the wild. Another

Travel tips for Puerto Viejo

• Buses leave San Jose from the MEPE Bus Station and take 5 to 6 hours to get to Puerto Viejo.
• Bus schedules never seem to be accurate. They change frequently, so double and triple ask multiple people about departure times

Top things to do in Puerto Viejo

• Swim at Punta Uva Beach (the second road after the bridge is where the best beach is)
• Visit the Jaguar Rescue Center
• Take a chocolate tour with Caribeans Chocolate and Coffee
• Explore Cahuita National Park

Where to stay in Puerto Viejo

Budget: Casa Moabi (Superb!!!!) or Pagalu Hostel

Middle: Bungalows Ache Cahuita (Cahuita – Superb!!!!) or Colina Secreta

Luxury: Casa Viva Lodge or Awa Beach Boutique Hotel

19. Bocas del Toro, Panama

The most popular travel destination in Panama is the group of islands known as Bocas del Toro. Situated on the Atlantic side of the country, Bocas del Toro is actually the name of the province that includes sections of the mainland, five main islands (Isla Colon, Isla Carenero, Isla Solarte, Isla San Cristobal, and Isla Bastimentos), loads of smaller uninhabited ones, and a marine park.

The islands have that typical Caribbean laid-back vibe that travelers easily fall prey to. Bocas also has a more varied population than most other Central American islands. It’s a mix of Latinos, West Indies, Blacks, the Ngobe-Bugle, and gringos.

The main town of Isla Colon, Boca Town, is the provincial capital. This is the budget backpacker party haven . There are quieter albeit more expensive lodgings in the more secluded areas of the archipelago.

There are loads of things to do here besides lazing away your day in the sun. You’ve got the usual surfing, scuba diving, and snorkeling . But there’s also a cacao farm that chocolate offers tours.

The islands are also teeming with wildlife from sloths to howler monkeys to manatees. The islands are also where turtles come to hatch their eggs on the beaches.

Travel Tips for Bocas del Toro

• You can take a bus from Panama City to Almirante and then take a ferry to the islands
• Don’t drink the water directly from the faucet in the Archipelago
• Check Panama’s official tourism website for the most up-to-date entry requirements.

Top things to do in Bocas del Toro

• Explore Isla Boca by bike or ATV
• Take a chocolate farm tour
• Visit indigenous communities
• Learn to surf

Where to stay

Budget: Bambuda Lodge (dorms – $29) or Tesoro Escondido Ecolodge Cabinas (private – $52)

Middle: Mosana Reef Garden B&B ($65) or Saigon Bay Bed and Breakfast ($75) or Bar r bra BnB Over The Sea ($75)

Luxury: Dolphin Bay Hideaway or La Loma Jungle Lodge and Chocolate Farm

20. Panama City, Panama

When you look at a photo of Panama City, you often see a skyline of sparkling skyscrapers. So, the last thing you associate the city with is history, culture, and nature. Yes, it is true that the city is Central America’s wealthiest and most cosmopolitan . However, Panama City is overflowing with travel opportunities for those who seek history, culture, great food, beaches, and wildlife.

In Casco Viejo , Panama City has one of Central America’s most fascinating historic neighborhoods . It’s filled with restored colonial buildings and cobblestoned streets, hip bars and clubs, trendy restaurants, and cafes.

Right in the city is Parque Natural Metropolitano , where you can find a remarkable range of wildlife from monkeys to sloths to white-tail deer. An hour and a half by bus is the tropical rainforest of Parque Nacional Soberania with over 500 bird species.

An hour and a half ferry ride from the city are 39 tropical islands called Archipielago de las Perlas with white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters.

Of course, the highlight of any trip to Panama City is the engineering marvel, the Panama Canal Zone .

Travel tips for Panama City

• The best time to visit is December to mid-March when the city gets the least amount of rain

Top things to do in Panama City

• Wander the streets of Casco Viejo
• Visit the ruins of Panama Viejo
• Explore Parque Natural Metropolitano
• Eat seafood at Mercado de Mariscos
• Spot wildlife at Parque Nacional Soberania
• Relax on one of the islands in Archipielago de las Perlas

Where to stay in Panama City

Budget: Magnolia Inn (dorms) or Bodhi Panama City (private – $34)

Middle: Nomada Container Hotel (Marbella) or The Balboa Inn

Luxury: La Concordia Boutique Hotel or American Trade Hotel

What places in Central America are missing?

I didn’t include some popular places in Central America.

Where’s San Juan del Sur in Nicaragua and El Tunco in El Salvador ?

Both of those places are surfing destinations. I visited them, but I found them boring and expensive. I don’t surf. If you don’t surf, there’s no reason to go. I like to swim, but the beaches aren’t good for swimming.

You left off La Fortuna in Costa Rica .

Yep, I did.

Leaving La Fortuna off this list of best places in Central America was a hard one.

I’ve been there. It’s very pretty,

The volcano is nice.

The parks are nice but expensive.

The waterfall is nice, but there are better ones in Central America. Plus, it’s also expensive!

The natural hot springs were cool.

I did a really cool sloth park with a guide.

In the end, I left it off because it just wasn’t that unique or special compared to other places on this list. My biggest complaint, though, is that it’s expensive and hard to get around if you don’t have a car. You need to use Uber or a taxi, but they’re often unavailable or they don’t want to pick you up.

What’s next after Central America?

After you’re trip through Central America, why not head on over to Mexico ? It’s easy to cross the border from Guatemala or Belize. You’ve got the states of Chiapas, Yucatan , and Quintana Roo right there.

If you’re in Guatemala , you can easily take a shuttle from Flores to Palenque or from Lake Atitlan to San Cristobal de las Casas .

For Belize, you can easily get to Bacala r in Quintano Roo and up to Playa del Carmen and Tulum .

From Panama, lots of travelers take a 3-day sailing trip from the San Blas Islands to Colombia .

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13 Comments

Certainly saved some for my visit to Central America!

So many GREAT places to visit in Central America! I really loved Roatan, but would love to visit more of these!

This is a fantastic list – I want to do ALL of these. The water caves and the Santa Ana volcano are my two top items.

I hadn’t thought much about Central America – I think I always thought it was South America! Thanks for the inspiration, I am adding them to my bucket list. Would 6 months be a good length to travel South and Central America?

Yes, 6 months would work for both. You won’t see it all, but you’ll see a lot of the best parts.

What a fantastic post! Central America is on my list to explore next year so this was perfect timing & really helpful for me. I want to pack now! Thank you, love all these recommendations.

I’m glad you enjoyed it. Yes, definitely go to Central America. It’s beautiful, there’s lots to see, the people are friendly, and it’s safer than you think.

So many awesome places to see in Central America. So far I have not been to any country in Central America. If I had to choose just one place from your list could be Lake Yajoa, Honduras. It looks incredible and I would love to spend some time there. Thanks for sharing!

We have only had small taste tests of countries in Central America. So it was great to get your personal input on some of the best places to visit in Central America. Belize has been on our list for some time so we would definitely look at San Ignacio and Caye Cauker for water sports. Guatemala looks far more interesting than I expected. And Honduras now means more than just Roatan! Costa Rica looks like it will take many trips to enjoy it all. Thanks for showing me more of Central American. Keeping this post!

I have traveled twice to Costa Rica but I need to add these other countries for future trips. Thanks for sharing.

I have never been to America, but I loved reading your post. I loved how you have included travel tips for each of the places.

Hola! Having visited Mexico and Guatemala, I plan to visit El Salvador, Nicaragua, Costa Rica and Panama in December this year.

Like you, I travel solo starting in 2000, had been to 59 countries. Your blog about crossing the border from El Salvador to Nicaragua and this one are interesting and very helpful for planning my upcoming trips. Keep up the good work!

Thank you so much! I’m glad that you found the blog interesting and helpful. I’ll be adding lots more posts on Central America in the coming months.

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7 Best Places to Visit in Central America in 2024

Home | Travel | Central America | 7 Best Places to Visit in Central America in 2024

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Central America is one of the top destinations in the world for ecotourism, and the best places to visit in Central America immerse you in the natural environment. If you love the outdoors, you’ll have a blast exploring the volcanoes of Guatemala, the wildlife of Costa Rica, the beaches of Panama, and beyond.

Moreover, this region has a rich Mesoamerican history, with historic Mayan ruins in Belize, Honduras, and other Central American countries . The biodiversity here is astounding, with hundreds of unique species, rare, endemic animals, and lush vegetation.

It’s hard to choose the best vacation spot in Central America , so in this guide, I’ll share the most noteworthy cities, attractions, and natural areas. Before I do though, I suggest getting a policy from one of the best travel insurance companies , so you’re covered in case you get injured or sick.

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Also, if you want to stay connected during your trip for things like email or Google Maps, check out the Holafly eSIM . We use it whenever we travel and it has options for Central America, so I highly recommend it if you need internet while traveling .

1. Costa Rica, the best place in Central America to visit for outdoor enthusiasts

Costa Rica is one of the best destinations in Central America thanks to its wealth of attractions and interesting sights. It’s also one of the safest places in Central America , although I still recommend getting travel insurance for Costa Rica so you’re covered in case anything happens.

Outdoor enthusiasts will never run out of things to do here, from hiking and ziplining to rafting and snorkeling. Whale-watching in Costa Rica is also a must-do. We took this excursion and would do it again in a heartbeat.

If you want to see more Central American wildlife , head to Tortuguero National Park , an incredible protected area and refuge for the green turtle. This canoe tour will help you discover the biodiversity of the park while you explore the channels of Tortuguero.

As one of the best countries in Central America for ecotourism , Costa Rica has amazing natural areas for you to explore. Manuel Antonio National Park is full of rainforests, beautiful bird species, and animals like sloths and the endangered Titi monkey. It’s a small park, but you’ll get the most out of your visit by taking this tour .

For something a bit different, check out the Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve , a subtropical rainforest with low-hanging moisture. This guided tour offers magical experiences like ziplining through the mist-shrouded canopy, walking across impressive suspension bridges, and visiting a lush butterfly garden.

You also can’t miss the Arenal Volcano , a 5,350-foot-tall active stratovolcano. Take a hike around the mountain to see the beautiful surroundings and the nearby geothermal hot springs. Finally, this country is full of scenic beaches, so head to the shores of Guanacaste for the best beaches in Costa Rica .

We have a full guide to plan your trip to Costa Rica , so check it out and we will help you in every step. I’ve also written an article on where to stay in Costa Rica , you will find great resorts, but these are three of my favorite hotels:

• Urban Green Hotel & Suites (San José)
• Shana by the Beach Manuel Antonio (Manuel Antonio)
• Wyndham Tamarindo (Tamarindo)
• Selina La Fortuna (La Fortuna)

2. Guatemala, the best place to visit in Central America for culture

Guatemala is one of the best countries in Central America , full of Mayan ruins, stunning landscapes, and cities rich in culture. One of its most famous sites is Tikal National Park , a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest archaeological sites of the pre-Columbian Maya. To take in the full scope of this place, I recommend this day tour to see the main temples and plazas.

These ruins are one of the most beautiful places in Central America , and about an hour south, you can see the natural beauty of Lake Pet én Itz á . Travel further south, and you’ll find Lake Atitl án , Guatemala’s most famous lake and the deepest lake in Central America. This day trip will take you to the legendary watering hole as well as several lakeside towns like Panajachel and Chichicastenango, which is known for its bustling outdoor market.

Another wonderful attraction and swimming spot is the Semuc Champey Natural Monument , a natural limestone bridge with a series of turquoise pools. Of course, you can’t miss your chance to visit Guatemala’s magnificent volcanoes. Hiking up the Pacaya Volcano to its sulfuric summit is quite an experience, and as you climb, you’ll spot small eruptions and lava flows while enjoying views of the Agua, Fuego, and Acatenango volcanoes.

Finally, some of the best cities in Central America are in Guatemala, including the capital of Guatemala City , Quetzaltenango , and the old capital of Antigua . The latter is a popular departure point for many tours, although this guided walk through the city is super interesting and highlights Antigua’s Baroque-influenced architecture.

• Wyndham Garden Guatemala City (Guatemala City)
• Hotel Aurora (Antigua)
• Hotel Casazul (Flores)

3. Belize, the best place to visit in Central America for incredible landscapes

Belize may be one of the smaller countries, but it can’t be missing from your tour through Central America . This place has it all, from ancient Mayan temples to outdoor activities and some of the best beaches in Central America .

Mainland Belize is home to incredible ruins like those at Lamanai . A hub for Mesoamerican civilization, this site has imposing structures like the Mask Temple, Jaguar Temple, and High Temple. Nearby, you can see the striking pyramid temples of Altun Ha , including the 52-foot-tall Temple of the Masonry Altars.

It’s also worth taking a day trip further south to the Caracol Ruins . Located in the Chiquibul Forest Reserve, this lowland Mayan city boasts old plazas, ruins, and gorgeous waterfall and hot spring trails. Another interesting excursion is this one to Xunantunich , a historic Mayan archaeological complex with over 25 structures and ceremonial centerpieces. Along the same lines, this cave tour goes to Actun Tunichil Muknal , a sacred site that was used by the Maya for sacrifices, bloodletting, and other ritualistic services.

Besides its rich historical value, Belize is one of the safest places in Central America , and a haven for divers. Off the coast, the Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System is an incredible habitat for sea turtles, sharks, manatees, and other marine life. A declared UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s home to the Great Blue Hole , a giant sinkhole measuring nearly 1,050 feet across and over 400 feet deep.

For an unforgettable snorkeling session, do this excursion , which explores the Hol Chan marine reserve and its coral reef. The tour departs from Caye Caulker , a small island with lovely beaches. Its larger neighbor, Ambergris Caye , is ideal for watersports, while the Placencia Peninsula in southern Belize is perfect for beach bums.

• Golden Bay Belize Hotel (Belize City)
• Mahogany Bay Resort and Beach Club (San Pedro)
• Colinda Cabanas (Caye Caulker)
• Ka’ana Resort & Spa (San Ignacio)

4. Panama, the best place to visit in Central America for a holiday

Linking Central and South America, Panama is best known for the Panama Canal , a 51-mile artificial waterway and a top tourist attraction in Central America . This tour is a great introduction to the canal, its pirate history, and the old forts in the area. Another interesting option is this canal cruise to see the famous Miraflores Locks, Pedro Miguel Locks, and the Bridge of the Americas.

You can see lots more historic and cultural sites in the capital, Panama City , which is home to museums, open-air markets, and a waterfront promenade along the canal. This walking tour shows you all the highlights, including the old town, the national theater, and “El Tornillo,” a corkscrew-shaped skyscraper. Moreover, the Panama Canal spills into Lake Gatun, which is filled with small islets like Monkey Island , where you can meet wild monkeys and other critters.

On the other hand, the San Blas Islands off the north coast of Panama are worth visiting, too. It’s a hotspot for water activities, so I suggest taking this day trip to enjoy paddleboarding and snorkeling along the seabed. You’ll also get to taste the fresh tropical fruits and mingle with the friendly locals.

In addition, the northwestern province of Bocas del Toro contains gorgeous beaches, a biodiverse rainforest, and vibrant nightlife. To the south, the mountain town of Boquete is known for its coffee plantations and ancient petroglyphs, so it’s a wonderful hidden gem.

Finally, off the southwestern coast of Panama, there are some of the most beautiful places in Central America , like Coiba Island. It’s home to Coiba National Park , a UNESCO World Heritage Site with over 1,000 square miles of forests, beaches, coral reefs, and mangroves that protect several species of whales, dolphins, and other marine creatures.

• Crowne Plaza Airport (Panama City)
• Tryp by Wyndham Panama Centro (Panama City)
• Bambuda Lodge (Bocas Town)

5. Nicaragua, the best place in Central America to visit for an exciting vacation

Nicaragua is one of the cheapest Central American countries , and the perfect place for outdoorsy types since the landscape is dotted with volcanoes and coastal biosphere reserves.

The southwestern region of Nicaragua is a hub for geothermal activity, and one of the most exciting spots is the Masaya Volcano , which is made of several calderas and craters. For the best experience, I recommend taking a night tour to see the glowing lava and to learn more about Masaya’s impact on the country’s landscape.

To the east of Masaya, you’ll find the Mombacho Volcano , a stratovolcano that last erupted in 1570. Mombacho stands out for its otherworldly cloud forest and rare endemic species. The best way to explore it is with this guided hike to the summit, which passes craters, red-eyed frogs, and other natural wonders.

Without a doubt, Nicaragua has some of the best volcano tours in Central America , so I also suggest this excursion to Cerro Negro . You’ll enjoy a scenic hike, then volcano board down the ash-covered hill before visiting Le ón , a city known for its huge Baroque cathedral.

Between the Masaya and Mombacho volcanoes, sits Lake Nicaragua , which contains over 360 small islands. These Islets of Granada were formed by the Mombacho eruption, and they aren’t the only geological formations in the lake. The two volcanoes also formed Ometepe Island , a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. This day trip from Granada explores the island’s native flora and fauna and includes a traditional meal and beach visit.

Speaking of Granada , it’s among Nicaragua’s most interesting cities, thanks to its colonial history, cultural institutions, and old structures. It’s not far from the Apoyo Lagoon Natural Reserve , a tropical dry forest with over 500 plant and tree species, hundreds of bird species, and a variety of animals like white-faced capuchin monkeys and jaguarundis.

• Selina Granada (Granada)
• Hotel La Omaja (Mérida)
• Hotel Globales Camino Real Managua (Managua)

6. Honduras, another one of the best places to visit in Central America

Honduras is a unique place to visit in Central America , and while it’s not the safest country, you’ll be fine if you stay in the touristy areas.

One of those is Roatán Island , an island paradise with beautiful cays and mangrove forests. There is also a marine park here that protects the ancient coral reef, making it an amazing destination in Central America for snorkeling and diving tours .

Moreover, this half-day tour provides an overview of Roatán, its beaches, and its suspension bridges. If you’re an animal lover, this excursion to Roatán’s monkey and sloth sanctuary is a must-do.

Next to Roatán, you’ll find Utila , another island with great diving spots and hiking trails. It’s also worth mentioning Cayos Cochinos , two small islets off the coast of La Ceiba where you can see the ultra-rare pink boa. If you’re around La Ceiba, check out Pico Bonito National Park or the Lancetilla Botanical Gardens , one of the largest botanical gardens in Latin America.

To the east, the Rio Plátano Biosphere Reserve is notable for its UNESCO World Heritage Site status, Mesoamerican archaeological sites, and vast array of fauna. To the west, Lake Yojoa is the largest lake in Honduras, with lava flows and volcanic craters dating back to the Pleistocene and Holocene eras.

Finally, all the way west, by the Guatemala border, there are the famous Cop án Ruins . This relic of Mayan civilization is a must-see in Central America and full of monuments, plazas, palaces, and pyramids. There’s a lot to see here, so consider booking a hotel by the ruins. That way, you can also take this day trip from Copán to the Luna Jaguar hot springs.

• Berakah B&B – Central Park (Copán Ruins)
• Infinity Bay Spa & Beach Resort (West Bay)
• Hotel Las Hamacas (La Ceiba)

7. El Salvador, the best place in Central America to visit for a unique experience

Lastly, a visit to Central America isn’t complete without seeing El Salvador . Spend some time in the capital city of San Salvador , either on your own or with this half-day tour . Among the city’s highlights, the Metropolitan Cathedral, Plaza El Salvador del Mundo, the National Palace, and the nearby crater lake of Ilopango stand out.

About 1.5 hours west of San Salvador, the breathtaking landscape of the Santa Ana Volcano is waiting. You can take a guided hike to enjoy the largest volcano in the country and its green crater lagoon. Nearby, the Izalco Volcano is known as the “Lighthouse of the Pacific” thanks to its high elevation of 6,400 feet. If you can’t decide, this volcano tour includes the Santa Ana and Izalco volcanoes, as well as Cerro Verde National Park. You’ll also see the Joya de Cer én Archaeological Site , which contains ancient Mayan remains and is known as the Pompeii of the Americas.

There are more pre-Columbian ruins in the area, such as the pyramids of San Andr és that date back to 900 B.C. The ancient city of Cihuat án was a major Mayan hub and still has old ceramic effigies and ceremonial structures. Tazumal is another cool place in Central America with ancient metal artifacts, pyramid temples, and chacmool sculptures.

In addition to history and culture, El Salvador has countless natural wonders. The huge crater lake of Coatepeque and the waterfalls of Tamanique are both prime hiking spots. Just 45 minutes from the capital, Boquerón National Park offers guided hikes through the volcanic scenery.

To the southwest, El Imposible National Park is another park with lush tropical vegetation and biodiversity. If you’re in the area, consider doing the Ruta de las Flores , which goes through several picturesque villages and local towns.

• Hotel Villa Serena Escalon (San Salvador)
• Sheraton Presidente San Salvador (San Salvador)
• Hotel Florencia (San Miguel)

Now that you know the best places to visit in Central America , all that’s left is to plan your trip . Maybe it’s easier with these travel discounts !

Of course, don’t hesitate to leave me a comment below if you have questions about this guide, or if you want to share your favorite place in Central America .

Hopefully, this list of Central American countries helped you, and I know that whichever one you choose, you’ll have an amazing time. Stay safe and have a fantastic trip!

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3 replies on “ 7 Best Places to Visit in Central America in 2024 ”

Hi, I love your write up! Any recommendations for a rough itinerary for 2 weeks in Central America and a desire to visit at least 2 other countries besides Costa Rica?

Not sure if we should fly between some countries, or drive between others, or which ones to pick. I truly appreciate any feedback!

That is a very personal opinion, but if you are going to be traveling only for 2 weeks, I would spend the two weeks in Costa Rica and still you won’t have time to see the most important attractions there.

I agree with Costa Rica suggestion. There are some restrictions but you can still move around freely and entry requirements are not terrible. I would say that 2 weeks is enough if you don’t spend too much time in the capital. Suggested itenerary: San Jose – La Fortuna, Puerto Viejo, Drive back to San Jose for a night and then head to Pacific Coast. You can fly regional plane to save time. On Pacific: Uvita, Santa Teresa, and Nosara. Don’t bother with Jaco or Tamarindo. Good luck.

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The Ultimate 2-Month Central America Road Trip Itinerary

Ah, the classic multi-month backpacking trip across Central America. A bucket list for many, we decided to try it out during a worldwide pandemic. And as you can expect, it was very challenging at times – but all the more rewarding.

But the fact that it was possible – even during the heart of the pandemic – means it is now totally feasible to visit every country in Central America. In fact, I highly implore anyone on the fence to go ahead and do it. It could be the trip of a lifetime.

Our travels took us through Mexico, Guatemala , Belize , El Salvador , Honduras , Nicaragua , and finally Costa Rica – with a few hiccups – including being detained in Nicaragua. But we made it.

So if you’re wondering if it’s possible to make it through every country in Central America in the post-pandemic environment, the answer is an unequivocal yes . If even we can do it, you definitely can do it.

Complications traveling through Central America

Traveling across Central America isn’t always as straightforward as one would expect. Each country has its own rules (especially Nicaragua!), its own ways of doing things, and different levels of connectivity.

We overcame much of this by traveling here and there by plane, some by shared shuttle, some by private taxi, a bit by TukTuk, a bit walking, and much by bus. It definitely was more complicated than even we expected after traveling to over 20 countries in the last year.

We definitely spent quite a few brain cells figuring out how to visit every country in the moat efficient but comprehensive manner. But it worked in the end!

The best way to travel across Central America: Chicken Bus, Cross-Country Bus, or Flying?

A huge part of our travel difficulties came from deciding how to get from country to country. Though flights are by far most convenient, we couldn’t convince ourselves to spend $400+ for some of the flights. But we also couldn’t get in contact with most of the bus companies that normally run the inter-country routes.

The only cheap Central America flights we found (but ultimately did not use) were:

• Guatemala City to San José, Costa Rica: $86 (Volaris)
• Guatemala City to San Salvador: $90 (Volaris)
• San Salvador to San José: $100 (Volaris)

Though these are great prices, they only align with itineraries skipping Honduras – which ended up being our favorite country . Guatemala City to San Salvador isn’t worth flying (in my opinion, even as a pilot ) over taking a 6-hour bus ride.

With Tica Bus, you can actually select your final destination along the route instead of continuing all the way to the next capital. This can be super convenient; for example in El Salvador, you can choose Ahuachapan as your destination to save time and money.

The upside of visiting every country in Central America

Despite the complications, the reward for traveling through Central America was sublime. We saw so many incredible off-the-beaten path sights resembling Tikal in Guatemala, minus the hoards of tourists that normally placate theme.

In many of the less well-known places, we were embraced warmly by locals. They were super friendly and welcoming to the few tourists they see in a year.

And accommodation outside the beaten path is much more affordable , meaning we could travel without feeling the weight of our budget as much.

I sincerely hope this article will inspire travelers, backpackers, luxury seekers, digital nomads, and the rest of the world to visit this magnificent area of the world.

Our Detailed Google Maps 2-Month Central America Ultimate Itinerary

For those of you who appreciate convenience and ease-of-use, here’s a fully functional map of our itinerary and all the spots in Central America we visited.

First country in our 2-Month Central America itinerary: Belize (5 Days)

Belize was probably our favorite country on this trip. From some of the world’s best diving to some of the world’s best Mayan sites, you just can’t miss in Belize.

Belize to Guatemala Border

The first thing you should probably know about traveling to Belize is that the land borders to Mexico and Guatemala have re-opened. This means that you can easily cross from Belize to Guatemala after visiting the Mayan sites of Belize.

Getting to Belize, then to the Cayes (Islands)

We started our trip by flying from Atlanta (ATL) to Belize (BZE) on Delta Air Lines , the airline leading the recovery from the pandemic. Our flight landed in the early afternoon, allowing us to travel to the beautiful Cayos (small islands) of Belize on the same day .

Though we had the option to take a taxi to Belize City then take a water ferry , we decided to hop on a $75 flight with Maya Air directly to San Pedro – a much more convenient option.

Where to Stay in the Cayes of Belize

In San Pedro, we recommend  Ramon’s Village Resort  for epic villa huts (like the ones you’ve seen in Bora Bora) right on the water. It’s a pretty cool experience.

In Caye Caulkner, our favorite place to stay is the  Colinda Cabanas . The value is purely unmatched on the island, especially when you consider it’s rated #1 on TripAdvisor!

For those looking to save some money on their booking, here’s a Hotels.com coupon code:

Diving the Blue Hole

The first thing to comes to mind when I think about Belize is The Great Blue Hole . A must-see for everyone, the Great Blue Hole sits in the Belizean portion of the Mesoamerican reef, the second largest barrier reef in the world.

Our recommended dive shop is the Scuba School and Family Dive Center Belize , where you can get dive lessons or participate in a plethora of dive tours, including the Great Blue Hole.

We opted for a Great Blue Hole dive (down to 130 feet) combined with 3 other dives in the area, and it was mind-blowing.

Seeing the Blue Hole from above – flight tours in Belize: affordable?

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Andi 🌍 Adventure Travel & Art (@destinationchaser)

After seeing the Great Blue Hole underwater, we knew that we hadn’t gotten enough of it. We had to see it by air.

At first, we were set on a helicopter tour… until we noticed the price. At more than $1000 per person, these tours were quite simply unaffordable.

Luckily we found airplane tours of the Blue Hole with Maya Air ! We felt the price there was much more reasonable. Worth every penny.

After our wonderful flight, we took a water taxi to Belize City where we could catch a Chicken bus (local public transportation) to San Ignacio instead of paying ~$90 for a shuttle.

The best Maya site in the world is in Belize

Next up was the coolest thing I’ve ever done in my life: exploring deep into a cave filled with ancient Mayan artifacts.

Called the Actun Tunichil Muknal or ATM Cave , it does not print out money… but it does print out amazing memories. Exploring the cave is a full-day activity and is probably my best memory from not only Belize but all of Central America.

Crossing the border from Belize to Guatemala or Mexico

We spent the next morning exploring some Maya sites such as Xunantunich before attempting to cross the land border into Guatemala.

At the time, the border was closed, so we scrambled to arrange a private shuttle to Belize Airport (BZE) and a flight on TAG Airlines to Guatemala City… for just shy of $300.

Now that the border has re-opened, you can easily take a taxi from San Ignacio to the border, then pick up a shared taxi or chicken bus to Flores in Guatemala. There’s also a shuttle available.

Second country in our 2-Month Central America Itinerary: 10 Days in Guatemala

Guatemala had been on our list for so long, with its incredibly preserved Maya sites, crystal clear lagoons, and epic volcano hikes – plus gorgeous cities.

RELATED: What It’s Like Traveling to Guatemala Right Now

How to get to Guatemala Right Now

You can get to Guatemala via San Ignacio, Belize or from the southern border of Mexico, such as Tapachula. There’s also a shuttle that runs from the border directly to TIkal.

We flew from Belize City (BZE) to Guatemala City (GUA) on TAG Airlines .

Fight or flight? How to get around Guatemala

If you arrived directly to Tikal from Belize, you can skip this section.

Guatemala is big. Very big.

We really wanted to see Tikal , one of the largest Mayan cities ever discovered. But there was only one problem: Tikal is on the opposite side of the country from Antigua. The drive is about 8 hours each way, and there are tourist shuttles running constantly.

We decided to take our trusty friends, TAG Airlines , from Guatemala City (GUA) to Flores airport. The round-trip was about $200 per person, so definitely on the expensive side of our trip. And honestly, it was pretty disorganized. Our bags arrived a couple hours after we did, which kind of defeats the purpose of flying over taking a bus.

Related: 16 Ultimate Tips for Your Next Rental Car in Guatemala

What you need to know before visiting Tikal

In Flores, we rented a car with Guatemala Rent a Car and drove about an hour to stay in Jungle Lodge right next to Tikal .

We woke up early as hell to try and grab some insta-worthy shots in Tikal under beautiful golden light but our plans were undermined by nonsensical rules.

As I wrote in a previous article, you can only grab tickets at the park entrance, and only during office hours . With the delay of our bags, we entered the park too late. And thus our 36km trip to buy Tikal tickets and come back began.

*Make sure to buy your Tikal tickets at the park entrance before driving to rest of the way to the hotel*

It was worth it though. But we wish we hadn’t wasted the time and money renting a car ($200 for 3 days) and staying at the jungle lodge (shared bathrooms for a private-bathroom kind of price).

In the afternoon, we drove down to El Greengo hostel near Semuc Champey . It’s a no-frills kind of hostel, but it suited our needs for one night.

Pro tip: the drive takes 6 hours and one of the the roads (AV-9 via Chabilcoch) is horrendous, but fun and adventurous. If you’re planning do the drive that way, rent a 4×4. And leave early. Otherwise, drive through Coban.

You can take a chicken bus from Flores to Coban, then another to Lanquin, or arrange a tourist shuttle directly from Flores to Semuc Champey. It’s best to contact your hotel/hostel and ask for more details, as times vary daily.

More Details: 10 Things You Need to Know Before Visiting Tikal

Semuc Champey: the most unbelievable place in Guatemala

Semuc Champey was undoubtedly one of the coolest things I saw in Guatemala, literally and figuratively. It reminded me of the Plitvice Lakes in Croatia , where you can swim in crystal-clear ponds surrounded by waterfalls.

Just like in Croatia, you can hike up the mountains for absolutely epic views on this unforgettably beautiful part of the country. It’s almost unfathomable how nature comes up with such incredible beauty, but there it is.

The only thing to note is that your time in the park is limited. You can only stay a couple hours, and when we were there, guards did check our time stamp.

We spent the afternoon driving 6 hours back up to Isla de Flores. In retrospect, we would have flown one-way to Flores and taken shuttles down to Semuc Champey and thereon to Guatemala City .

We did really enjoy Flores though – it’s a surprisingly relaxing, chill, and enjoyable place to spend a couple nights.

The best town to stay and relax in Guatemala: Antigua

After taking a quick (~1 hour / $7) shuttle to Antigua, an extremely cute colonial town surrounded by volcanos, we arrived at the Porta hotel .

For those looking to save some money on their booking, here’s we recommend signing up with hotels.com for insider discounts.

We found it a perfect fit; cute, quaint, and a great blend of nature and city. Our room overlooked the garden and we overall found the price:quality ratio to be excellent.

Antigua, Guatemala is a must-see. It’s basically on every shuttle/bus route used by tourists and is hard to miss. It’s also a great ‘base camp’ for day trips to the surrounding volcanos, lakes, and astounding nature that Guatemala offers.

There are shuttles from Semuc Champey to Guatemala City, and onwards to Antigua Guatemala. It’s also possible by chicken bus via Coban and Guatemala City.

Guatemala is on fire! Volcano tours have re-started this year in Guatemala

Quite literally, parts of Guatemala are on fire.

Guatemala harbors a seemingly endless number of volcanos. Many are active, some very active. At the time we were there, Pacaya was erupting, spewing enough lava to cause evacuations of entire towns.

We decided to join a 2-day hike on the Acatenango Volcano with a highly-reputed tour company called Wicho and Charlie’s .

The tour starts around 10AM, includes transportation, fantastic tour guides, and gear for a very nominal price. The hike is a pretty intense 4-6 hours up to the top of the volcano. But when you get there, be prepared to have your mind blown.

Wicho and Charlie’s provide protected aluminum tents with views right on the Volcan de Fuego, a volcano spewing chunks of rocks and bright red lava every 5-10 minutes or so. It makes for the most spectacular fireworks of your life. Combined with some hot chocolate, I’m not sure there’s anything better in life.

Our favorite hotels in Antigua, Guatemala

After the hike, we were completely exhausted. We thought we were decently fit people, but the volcano taught us otherwise. Luckily, we found a hotel with great reviews called the Good Hotel and decided to try it out.

The name of the hotel did make us a bit nervous, but we were surprised to find that it really lived up to it. The rooms felt northern European; high-quality, quiet, super comfortable, and just what you need. The food was so good that we ate at their restaurant three times in two days.

But the best part is that they’re non-profit. They donate their profits to local schoolchildren and take care of the surrounding community. We were truly touched by their compassion and care.

Though we didn’t muster the energy to do it, we recommend planning a day trip to the Pacaya Volcano to see the lava up-and-close. Just don’t get too close.

Atitlán: A beautiful lake surrounded by volcanos and cute towns in Guatemala? Here’s where to stay right now.

Since Italy is closed and we can’t visit the beautiful Lago di Como, we decided to go with plan B: visiting Lake Atitlán . Surrounding the lake are a couple cute towns to explore including Panjachel and Santiago , which both have quite awesome markets for some great shopping.

We stayed at La Fortuna , a secluded resort right on the lake. It’s so secluded that you can actually only get there by boat. And it’s a truly great way to fully enjoy the spectacular feeling of being on an inverted volcano lake surrounded by a bunch of normal, non-inverted volcanos.

Our last day

We stayed the night at the Westin Las Americas in preparation for our early morning start towards El Salvador the next day.

It was fantastic to enjoy the amenities of a four star hotel in a very nice part of the city.

Third country on our 2-month itinerary: One week in El Salvador

From the outside, it’s easy to simply discard El Salvador as a country filled with street violence, MS-13, drugs, and crime. But that’s simply not true .

Our experience in El Salvador was seeing that most locals lead lives strikingly similar to ours back home. We were there during the Semana Santa, or holy week (Easter), which is taken very seriously in Central America.

As a result, we were able to participate in some pretty incredible parades, celebrations, and festivities. It was a very lively time filled with markets, music, and friendly, inviting people.

Our time in El Salvador also included some disappointments. Thought El Salvador did not feel unsafe , we don’t think it’s a country you need to go out of your way to visit.

It’s nice but it ended up our least favorite country in Central America.

Read for full details: Your Ultimate El Salvador Travel Guide

Our route into El Salvador from Guatemala City and the mistake we made

Once again Tica Bus came to the rescue. We decided to ride it from Guatemala City to Santa Ana , the last stop before San Salvador.

Though Santa Ana is a cute town, it’s not really special. We don’t necessarily recommend stopping there.

If you plan to take the Ticas Bus, you should choose Ahuachapan as your destination. It’s a lovely town in the Ruta de las Flores, an incredibly cute array of 6 pueblos up in the mountains surrounding volcano Santa Ana.

Alternately, you can ride the bus all the way to San Salvador from which you can rent a car. That’s probably the best option; as you’ll read below, getting around El Salvador is tough .

The Tica Bus cost us $25 each, and was overall decent. The ride always takes longer than predicted, especially with how slow the border crossings are.

Crossing the border from Guatemala to El Salvador (very easy!)

Out of all the border crossings we did in Central America, this one was actually the easiest . We disembarked in Guatemala to collect our exit stamps but  did not actually have to step off  the bus in El Salvador. Instead, a border agent came on the bus, collect everyone’s passports, and returned with stamps.

Easy peasy.

Getting Around El Salvador (VERY tough)

This was the part we screwed up. Unfortunately, pretty much  none of the shuttle services are running  at the moment. We had no trouble finding them in Guatemala, yet in El Salvador we had to resort to taxis, private transport, or public buses.

We were hoping to rent a car in Santa Ana, but none of the rental car agencies shown on google (even those with working websites) were responding. So if you want to rent a car, make sure to go all the way to San Salvador (or perhaps El Tunco, where there are some rental car companies running).

The roads in El Salvador are excellent all around, even the dirt ones. Driving is relatively easy and painless.

Where to stay in Santa Ana, El Salvador

We had an amazing time at the  Casa Verde hostel  in Santa Ana. Carlos, the owner, is a super cool and helpful guy with all the contacts for tours, transport, and maximizing your time in El Salvador.

Santa Ana itself is not very tourist. It has lots of local (and very cheap) markets, a cute central square, but is otherwise not exceptional town. The street food is pretty good but there isn’t much selection of restaurants. And if you’re vegetarian, forget it.

Visiting the Ruta de las Flores in El Salvador

After failing to arrange a rental car, we got ourselves an uber to our first stop on the Ruta de las Flores: Apaneca. Though it was an hour away, Uber only charged us $30.

An off-duty police officer picked us up, so we got to ask about  violence and crime  first-hand. He told us that El Salvador’s tourism initiative involved the government bulking up security forces including national police and even the military. There are some rough spots, but there is security basically anywhere that tourists would want to go.

It all seemed to have good effect. We never felt uncomfortable walking or driving around, even at night.

Our favorite town on the Ruta de las Flores was  Ataco . It’s one of the bigger towns and simply has more to offer in terms of food and nightlife.

Speaking of nightlife,  Nahuizalco ‘s night markets are not to miss. They’re lively, exciting, and sprawling.

Chasing waterfalls in El Salvador

Central America has so many waterfalls that by the end, you should be tired of them… but you’re not.

We heard a local tip about some waterfalls close to the border with Honduras called the  Salto de Malacatiupan . These are actually hot spring waterfalls and truly a must-see if you’re in the area.

Afterwards, we finished our tour of the Ruta de las Flores, exploring these incredibly cute towns during the Semana Santa. The streets were filled with locals flocking from all over the country, coming together to celebrate Easter with parades, parties, festivities, live music, great food, and awesome dancing. It was truly a spectacle.

Our full day tour of the Ruta de las Flores ended costing us $90 (total).

What you must see while in Juayua, El Salvador

We finished the night in  Juayua , a tiny pueblo (town) with another must-see: the  Feria Gastronomica , a weekend market filled with street food vendors. You’ll find everything from bao to barbeque to vegetarian food.

5 minutes from Juayua are the  Chorros de la Calera , an amazing natural pool surrounded by cascades. At the moment, the cascades (main attraction) are closed, but you can still do a 2-3 hour hike to 7 waterfalls nearby.

There’s also a pretty cool maze nearby which features zip lining, biking on suspended lines, and other family-friendly activities.

The coolest place to chill out in El Salvador: Lake Coatepeque

Lake Coatepque is a ginormous crater lake situated between some gorgeous volcanos basically smack in the middle of El Salvador.

In my mind, Lake Coatepeque is the Lake Atitlan of El Salvador. It’s that nice.

Here, you can spend the day relaxing on a hammock enjoying volcanic views, take a jetski out, or go for a swim.

Getting to Lake Coatepeque

Remember how I said getting around El Salvador is tough? As we couldn’t find a shared shuttle, we hired a private driver to get us from the Ruta de las Flores to the lake. Cost: $65. And we  definitely  searched around.

This is where having a  rental car  would be an enormous help.

We stayed at the only place that had rooms left during the busy Semana Santa: the Captain Morgan hostel. We quickly realized why there weren’t rooms left. It’s extremely noisy until late at night, the shared bathrooms are horrid, and the service is absolutely lackluster.

Instead, we recommend staying at the Cardedeu hotel (or residences if you fancy) to full take in the tranquility of this incredible lake.

RELATED:  16 Ultimate Tips for Your Next Rental Car in Guatemala

Surf City: El Salvador is the surf capital of Central America

Next, we took yet again another $65 private transfer to El Zonte, the “surf city” of El Salvador.

Surfers flock here from around the world to catch world-class swells and enjoy some of the cheapest beach living you can find on this side of the planet.

We stayed at  Palo Verde “Sustainable” hotel , which was great but in no way “sustainable”. It’s right on the beach and has a lovely pool and great restaurant. You can also take  surf lessons  – unless red flag conditions, like we had, are present.

Food in El Salvador: great for meat-lovers, terrible for vegetarians

El Salvador was probably the toughest place to find good vegetarian food. Instead, you’ll probably eat side dishes most of the time – if they even let you. Most restaurant workers are simply confused by a request. When you say “no meat”, their reply is typically “ok so chicken?”

But in El Zonte, we caught or lucky break (surf pun?). The only place that was still open at 9PM, the last place we found, ended up being the best food we had in El Salvador outside of the capital.

The lovely restaurant,  Beach Break , doubles as a boutique hotel close to the beach (obviously), and the owners are super friendly. You can eat with your feet in the sand while enjoying views on the river.

Best for last: Suchitoto and Cinquera, ex-civil war hotbeds

Another expensive private transfer later and we found ourselves flabbergasted by the beauty of the next area. Nestled in the highlands of El Salvador is a colorful, lively town with a background of civil war hardships, guerrilla warriors, and absolute devastation.

Seeing how far El Salvador has come since then is nothing short of mind-boggling. The town of  Suchitoto  was the closest thing we saw to Antigua, Guatemala except that the surrounding scenery was, in our opinions, even more beautiful.

We had dinner at a wonderful restaurant called  1800 Casa . WOW. Views. When you’re overlooking the massive Lake Salcoatitlan and its surrounding tallest mountains in El Salvador, you won’t want to leave. Trust me.

The next day, we took a tiny TukTuk to the ex-guerrilla headquarters of  Cinquera , a town fraught with death, destruction, and violence. We took a tour into the forested highlands where guerrillas hid, lived, and fought to the death.

Our guide was the niece of an ex-guerrilla and much of her family had been directly affected by the tragedy and violence of the war.

As a result, hearing her firsthand stories felt like re-living the experience, the peril, the devastation. It was certainly more real than any movie or book I’ve ever seen or read.

It was truly touching and quite a meaningful end to our week in El Salvador.

Country #4 in our 2-Month Central America Itinerary: Honduras (8 Days)

Honduras was the country that surprised us the most. From the outside, it sounds like a country filled with violence and danger. But once we were there, we realized it was just like any other Central American country – except maybe more beautiful.

Crossing from El Salvador to Honduras

We took a 10-hour Tica bus from San Salvador to Tegucigalpa , and it was pretty tiring. The border crossing into Honduras was overall kind of sloppy and very slow on both ends (exiting El Salvador and entering Honduras).

RELATED: 10 Surprising Reasons Honduras Was Our Favorite Country in Central America – with info on “Is Honduras Safe to visit?”

How We Got Around Honduras (Highly Recommended)

Though it is possible to get around Honduras by public transportation, we heard bad things. Petty theft is common, buses run very full, and they break down often.

As private shuttles are abhorrently expensive, we decided to rent a car – which also wasn’t cheap. But it wasn’t bad, around $350 for a week with a diesel truck. We rented with Xplore Rent a Car , and had a mixed experience. Customer service was all over the place, from excellent to extremely poor depending on the employee. But overall, the operation is great.

Day 1: the Valle de Angeles is shockingly beautiful

I sent a picture of a town we stopped in to my family in Europe and asked where they thought it was. The answer I got back? Portugal!

This part of Honduras is astoundingly beautiful, and almost seems out of place in Central America. It’s green, full of pine trees, gorgeous Spanish-colonial towns, and cobblestone streets. It does not feel ‘developing’ in any way.

We recommend these two stops in the Valle de Angeles, Honduras:

• Santa Lucia: a gorgeous town looking down into the Tegucigalpa valley
• Cantarranas/San Juan de Flores: an up-and-coming tourist hotspot filled with street art

We stayed the night at Liquidambar , which was one of our favorite hotels in Central America. For those looking to save some money on their booking, here’s a Hotels.com coupon code:

Save $5 when you spend $50+ with code 5OFF50US . Book by 12/31/21. Travel by 3/31/22.

Day 2: Deep in the Jungle of Honduras

Our next stop took us deep into the Cerro Azul National Park, right off the beautiful Lago Yojoa (Lake Yojoa). This is a vastly underrated jungle forest filled with waterfalls, hummingbirds, and all sorts of wildlife.

We stayed at the Panacam Lodge , which is as close to nature as you can get. Breakfast and phenomenal views are included in the reasonable price (~$60 per night).

There were 5 waterfalls and lots of hiking trails to explore, but the best treat was the birdwatching . Cerro Azul is a safe haven for species from all over the world and even some endemic ones.

Day 3: Exploring the Lake and heading to the Caribbean coast!

Our destination: Tela, on the Caribbean coast. But there’s a lot to see in the Yojoa area before finishing the 3 hour journey.

On our way out, we couldn’t help but stop at AGUALPA -Domos & Cabañas , where you can actually visit a retired Fokker prop airplane! Ok, maybe that’s just the pilot in me wanting to see that. There’s also a decent restaurant there.

Lake Yojoa features plenty of spots to rent kayaks and enjoy this wonderful hidden gem surrounded by lush green mountains, and lots of road stands selling pineapples! Good to know right?

The Pulhapanzak Waterfalls are right on the way to the Caribbean coast. There you can ride zip-lines for less than $40USD per person… right over some of the most incredible waterfalls I’ve ever seen.

We finished the night at Vista Maya hotel in Tela – which was fine. The best part was the great views overlooking the beautiful coastline, the food was average, and the rooms had air conditioning – much needed at sea level.

Day 4-5: Day Trips from Tela

We spent the next couple days admiring the beauty of the Honduran coastline – a nice change from the mountains we had lived in for the last couple weeks.

Here are the best day trips from Tela:

• Pico Bonito: white water rafting and jungle trekking
• Punta Sal: isolated beaches with great views about an hour boat ride away (~$40pp)
• Jeanette Kawas: mangroves accessible only by boat, where you may see crocodiles
• Tela Beach area itself is filled with beach huts, restuarants, and white sand!

Day 6: our best day in Honduras!

We never saw it coming. Our favorite hotel was one we booked minutes before arriving, just looking for something halfway back to Tegucigalpa.

This hotel had suspiciously great reviews on google. We were reluctant at first, thinking they could be made up.

They weren’t.

It wasn’t as much a hotel as a private nature reserve with a couple lovely rooms, but it was the best we could have asked for . It’s called Luna del Puente Reserva Natural Privada and it was possibly our most relaxing stay of our entire 2-month trip.

The owners have lived there for 30 years, gracefully taking care of the enormous reserve they live on, truly embracing being one with nature. At night, we were invited to meet the red-eyed frogs that live all over the property – and their eggs and toads. It was… eye-opening. We LOVED it.

Day 7: Enjoying Luna del Puente

We woke up to the delightful sound of nature. Insects, frogs, birds chirping, and the occasional refreshing thunderstorm. The food here at Luna del Puente is absolutely delicious – plus there’s endless fresh hot cocoa and local coffee to enjoy.

Seriously we could spend a week here without leaving the property. It’s truly wonderful.

Unfortunately, it was time to continue our journey southwards into Nicaragua.

Where to stay in Tegucigalpa

Our stop for the night was the Holiday Inn Express Tegucigalpa – which ended up being a really great stay.

It’s located in the nicest part of Tegucigalpa, with plenty of shopping and dining options. The rooms are great, breakfast is included, and so is the shuttle to the airport if you need.

In our case, we took an Uber for $7 to the TicaBus station for our next country – Nicaragua!

For those looking to save some money on their booking, book with Hotels.com .

Our Fifth Country During Our 2 Months in Central America: Nicaragua (7 days) – a VERY interesting experience…

Nicaragua: the country where I got bitten by a dog, we had not one but two flat tires, we were asked (and declined) to bribe police at a traffic stop, and we had to spend $25 each just to cross the borders.

Yet, we loved it.

Nicaragua is such a unique country in Central America.

Yes, it’s communist.

Who cares? The people make it great. The food is great, the towns are amazing, and the nature is even better than all that. Plus, it’s CHEAP.

Despite all that happened to us, we would do it all over again. Dog bite included.

How we got detained entering Nicaragua

So, the only reason I’m telling you how important it is to fill out the Precheck/prechequeo a week before entering Nicaragua… is because we didn’t. We assumed, clearly incorrectly, that it was like the other countries where you fill out the form within 48 hours of entering. Wrong .

Customs & immigrations reviews each application individually and it can take up to a week to approve. If you don’t have one filled out a week prior , prepare to be detained on arrival pending an ‘interview’.

They just asked us what the prechequeo asks for: where you’re going/staying, how you’re getting there, health info, etc.

How to get to Nicaragua

Flights into Nicaragua are unfortunately still extremely limited. If you want to fly, you’ll have to take Avianca. And unfortunately, their flight prices are very expensive ($400-500 each way).

We took a TicaBus from Tegucigalpa (operates twice a week). TicaBus also runs buses from San Salvador to Managua if you’re looking at a different itinerary.

Leon was our first destination of choice, but you can’t go wrong with anything outside Managua – the only city you don’t need to see in Nicaragua.

Word of advice if driving in Nicaragua: police bribes

We had been forewarned about bad cops in Nicaragua, but we’d heard the same thing a hundred times for every other country we visited as well – police here are bad and will try to force you to bribe them. Well, we had been lucky thus far in Central America…

But then it happened. We were pulled over for literally NO reason.

The exchange basically went like this:

Cop (Spanish) – “You took that turn a little fast. License and papers please.”

Side note: NEVER give your passport over . Repeat after me: never give your passport to the cops! This is their leverage for a bribe. Say you left it in the hotel.

It’s also better to pretend you don’t speak Spanish and say you will call your rental car agency to let them talk.

Us: “No we didn’t. We’re just trying to head to the volcano, please let us go.”

Cop: “It will be a fine and you will have to pay at the bank. Or you can just pay me here right now and I let you go.”

Us: “Ok fine, we’ll go to the bank with you” (knowing the cop didn’t actually want to do that)

Cop: starts arguing trying to tell us to pay him now. We told him what we was doing was unjust , he knows that, and there’s no way we’re going to pay.

In the end, we refused and were let free. As a last ditch effort, he asked us if we wanted to give a donation for the police force. HELL NO!

First Stop: Leon

Leon was such an amazing introduction to Nicaragua. Ever since Guatemala we had been missing truly colonial towns.

We got what we wanted – and more. Leon has some of the best food we had in Central America, and did I mention it was cheap?

Make sure to check out the Leon Cathedral right in the center of town. You can actually climb up to the rooftop (until about 5:30PM – they kick you out at 6).

Black Sandboarding: FYI

If you’re looking to participate in the black-sand volcano sand boarding (at Cerro Negro – literally means black mountain), Quetzaltrekkers (the main tour company in Leon) has reopened, and also offers affordable shuttles around the country.

Look into the bowels of an active volcano

There are only 10 places in the world you can peer straight into the crater of an active volcano and as you can probably guess by now, Nicaragua is one.

You can actually drive right up to this volcano 🌋, unlike most of the others in the world. All lazy people (like me), rejoice!

The entrance fee was around $10 per person and totally worth it. There is a restaurant in the park but it was closed when we entered last month.

Swim and meditate in an inverted volcano

Just to one-up how amazing Nicaragua is, have you ever swum in an inverted volcano?

At Lake Apoyo, you can! The water is pretty nice and clear, and warm. That’s nice.

We highly recommend staying at the Apoyo Lodge . It’s traditionally a yoga and meditation retreat, and I couldn’t think of a better location for it. You’re right up on the lake with boogie boards and tubes included.

The Apoyo Lodge includes vegan food, making it an even more amazing stay. One of our favorites.

Granada: another must-see

I hope you’re not tired of cute colonial towns. We personally couldn’t get enough, and Granada was our favorite in Nicaragua.

The food here was the best we had in Central America, the streets were the cutest we had seen since Antigua, and the people were just as friendly.

We couldn’t help ourselves but to eat at the Garden Cafe – which admittedly is pretty expensive. The smoothies and dishes they serve are fresh and delicious.

Our hotel of choice here is the Patio de Malinche . You won’t find a better price:quality ratio.

You HAVE to visit this magical volcano island in the middle of a lake

This was possibly our favorite thing in ALL of Central America. Here’s why .

Let’s go to the beach!

San Juan del Sur is a backpacker’s paradise. Good surfing, good food, and better views. It’s Costa Rica quality for Nicaragua prices.

We actually ran into a ton of expats here, the first we had seen since Belize and Guatemala.

If that’s not your thing, there are plenty of other beaches that are a bit more local!

Exiting Nicaragua: you have to pay (ca$h) to leave!

Before leaving Nicaragua, we made sure to exhaust our Cordobas thinking we were being smart. We weren’t.

Yep, they won’t let you leave via land unless you pay. It’s just $6 each but it caught us off guard.

Tired of the bus? Try one-way rentals

We were able to select Peñas Blancas (the border crossing into Costa Rica) as our drop-off location for our rental car. It was an extra $50, but totally worth it to not take another uncomfortable bus ride.

We dropped off our car and walked through. On the other side we found our next rental car waiting for us! I definitely enjoyed this SO much more than riding a bus for 8+ hours.

Do NOT use Sixt. They have horrendous customer service. Alamo on the other hand was one of my best experiences renting cars ever.

Last Stop on our 2-Month Central America Road Trip Adventure: Costa Rica! (7 days)

You can’t visit Central America without a stop in Costa Rica.

Is it touristy? Super.

Is it expensive? Very much so.

But it’s SO worth it. Costa Rica’s government started initiatives to preserve and promote nature in the 70s and 80s, and the results are fabulous .

I don’t think any other country in Central America can rival Costa Rica’s incredibly diverse wildlife and nature. Though Costa Rica’s landmass is less than 1% of the world, it holds 5% of the diversity of wildlife. That’s mind-blowing.

We really don’t like touristy places but we totally fell in love with Costa Rica.

Renting a car and driving in Costa Rica

The roads in Costa Rica are the worst we saw in Central America, period. Some are paved but you really wish they weren’t. The amount of potholes is absolutely staggering.

There are roads where you’ll have to cross rivers and your rental car insurance becomes void. Make sure to research or ask about these at your rental location.

You are required to get third-party liability insurance (often called SLI) but nothing else. I was able to only select this insurance by contacting Alamo directly by e-mail to get a direct quote.

I used my Chase Sapphire Reserve card as the primary rental car insurance with no issues.

Best wildlife in Central America

Even though Costa Rica only takes up less than 1% of the total landmass of the earth, it contains 5% of its biodiversity. This is a direct result of the government’s actions 30+ years ago to protect the environment.

So even though we hated paying Costa Rica prices, we were delighted by what we saw and experienced.

Wild parrots, hummingbirds, armadillos, squirrel monkeys, spider monkeys, blue-tail magpies, sloths (and their babies) in our garden, and so much more.

Best Costa Rica 7-Day Itinerary

There’s so much to see and do in Costa Rica. The possibilities are almost literally endless.

Last year, I spent 3 days here in Guanacaste and I knew I had to come back and see more.

This time, we spent 10 days here and still only scratched the surface. That being said, an ideal itinerary from Penas Blancas might be:

• Rincon de la Vieja, staying at Hacienda Guachipelin where you have access to 7 waterfalls and hot springs
• Northern Guanacaste, staying at the JW Marriott Guanacaste and enjoying the beach, spa, and pool
• Southern Guanacaste, staying at the Barcelo Tambor and its secluded, magnificent beaches
• Rio Celeste/Tenorio Volcano area, visiting the spectacular waterfall and staying near Lake Arenal
• La Fortuna area where you have nearly endless activities (white water rafting, rappelling, sloth watching, night wildlife tours, and great dining). Stay the the Paradise Hot Springs for luxury and insanely gorgeous hot springs!
• The Monteverde Cloud Forest. This is a MUST-SEE in Costa Rica. Best wildlife, most incredible nature, and lovely town. For the best birdwatching, head to the Curi-Cancha Reserve.
• Parque Nacional Manuel Antonio with its awesome wildlife (tons of monkeys, crabs, and sloths), amazing beaches, and surfing. Make sure to plan a day at the Nauyaca Waterfall Nature Park as well!
• Limon for a taste of the Caribbean life, and more crabs and sloths! Great seafood and white sand beaches here.
• Parque Nacional Tortuguero, one of the greatest single places in Costa Rica. You can watch the Green and Leatherback turtles building their nests or leaving towards Florida depending on the season.
• And if your trip finishes in San José, pay a visit to La Paz Waterfall Gardens Nature Park – unless you’ve had enough of waterfalls.

If you’re headed to Panama next, the Corcovado National park for some amaaaaaazing views! In that case, you may want to save Manuel Antonio as the last step on your journey before Corcovado.

…Our Central America road trip to be continued…?

Though we had initially planned to continue into Panama, our plans changed about midway through. And we had already spent three weeks in Mexico last year – which, by the way, is open too !

Thanks for reading! As always, feel free to contact me.

Croatia: The Ultimate 8 Day Road Trip Itinerary

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How did you guys manage to book Tica Bus? Whenever i look for a route, it says no route available.

Hi there. This is likely because the route you are searching for is not available that day. Many of the route schedules have been reduced because of Covid-19. Some are only once per week.

I really enjoy the layout of your blog and the way you write out your information. Right to the point! Thanks for the super helpful Central America itinerary (:

Hi Britney, thank you so much! I’m very happy to help. 😊

[…] (Isalo), Jurassic ages (Tsingy) and more. Places that resemble everything from The Grand Canyon to Costa Rica to Western Europe to beaches like the Seychelles. There are even whales. It’s truly […]

Hi! Really liked your blog! I was wondering how much did this 2-month trip cost you approximately in total (with food, activities, hotels, etc. and without the flights for arrival and departure)?

Great question! I’m not totally sure, but I would estimate it was around $500-700/week per person. Some parts cost more; hiring a driver everywhere in El Salvador, renting a car one way in Costa Rica and Nicaragua, so you can definitely do it all for half of what we paid.

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20 Breathtaking Places to Visit in Central America

There are so many incredible places to visit in Central America that it is definitely difficult to choose where to visit! Between the stunning beaches, lush jungles, and jaw-dropping volcanoes, there’s a lot of picturesque places to visit. The countries in Central America will have you wanting to keep planning more trips back to visit more.

To help with your planning, I’ve teamed up with some amazing travel bloggers to bring you a list of some of the best places to visit in Central America. It will surely inspire you to add new destinations to your travel bucket list!

Continue reading to discover the best places to visit in Central America!

**Please note that this blog post uses affiliate links. If you make a purchase through my link, I will receive a small commission at no cost to you.

Table of Contents

El Valle de Antón

Recommended by Joseph of The Culture Portrait

El Valle de Antón, or more colloquially called “El Valle”, is a town set in the crater of a dead volcano, 2-3 hours away from Panama City by car. It is a tranquil and very laid-back town in the countryside of Panama and is one of the best places to visit in Central America. It is suitable for relaxing, taking it easy, and soaking in the mountain air. Overall, El Valle is great if you are a mountain town kind of person, and you love lush greenery.

To give you a look into the role that El Valle plays in local culture, Panama City locals use El Valle for a relaxing, quick mountain getaway. Additionally, wealthy Panamanians from the city own country houses there, to which they retreat whenever they want to.

The activities that are popular in El Valle are horseback riding, hiking, visiting the Aguas Termales, bird-watching, checking out the “square-shaped” trees behind Hotel Campestre, and going to the “ Chorro El Macho ” waterfall.

A visit to the Aguas Termales or thermal waters can be fun. These are naturally formed pools of warm water containing various natural minerals that are thought to help the skin.

Next, if you’re into hiking, the most popular hike is the hike to the top of the “India Dormida” mountain, and you can see the whole town from up there. Set at the beginning of the hike there is a big stone called the “ Piedra Pintada ” with Pre-Columbian petroglyphs that were made by Native American tribes (which you might want to check out). If you do hike the mountain, make sure to bring a guide with you to make sure you don’t get lost, and bring mosquito repellent. 

 Lastly, you might want to check out the Nispero Zoo to see cute, exotic birds and the “Chorro El Macho” waterfall, which can be fun activities for both kids and adults. 

Where to Stay in El Valle:

• For beautiful sea and mountain views, check out this vacation rental .
• If you’re looking for a great hostel to meet other travellers, Bodhi Hostel is a great choice.
• For more places to stay in El Valle check out Expedia.ca , Booking.com , or VRBO .

Bocas del Toro

Recommended by Megan of Red Around the World

Bocas del Toro is a tropical paradise off the Caribbean coast of Panama.  It’s an easy bus and boat ride from Panama City or Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica, and is perfect if you want a relaxing beach getaway. 

There are two main islands that visitors stay on, Isla Colon is great if you are interested in nightlife and Isla Bastimentos just a short boat ride away is perfect if you want a laid-back vacation.  You can visit some of the other islands if you decide to do an island hopping tour, which is a great way to experience the area.

There are so many awesome things to do in Bocas del Toro like renting bikes, visiting Playa Estrella and Boca del Drago, island hopping, snorkeling, SCUBA diving, relaxing on Red Frog Beach, enjoying chocolate in the hills of Bastimentos, lively nightlife, and even a  bioluminescence tour.

Where to Stay in Bocas del Toro:

• If you’re looking for a stunning lodge with views of the water, Bambuda Lodge is a perfect choice.
• This vacation rental boasts a private pool and is right on the beach!
• For more places to stay in Bocas del Toro, check out Expedia.ca , Booking.com , or VRBO .

Panama City

Recommended by Me

If travelling to Panama, you’re likely to fly into the international airport in Panama City. The city is great to explore for a few days, or even just for a one-day stopover . When visiting, you must see the Panama Canal and the city sign near the water!

The historical area, Casco Viejo, boasts pastel-coloured colonial buildings that are really photogenic. This area is home to many local restaurants, souvenir shops, street sellers, and more to explore. Be sure to take a walk by the water to admire the stunning views.

There are plenty of organized day tours to take you around the city to learn more about the area. There are convenient tours that offer round-trip airport transportation as well, which is perfect for a stopover adventure!

Where to Stay in Panama City:

• This stunning 3-story penthouse is a perfect vacation rental option. The rooftop sitting area is the perfect way to relax after a long day of exploring.
• Hotel y Casino Central Park Panama also has a gorgeous pool and cozy rooms to relax in.
• For more places to stay in Panama City, check out Expedia.ca , Booking.com , or VRBO .

San Blas Islands

Recommended by Pamela of The Directionally Challenged Traveler

One of the best places to visit in Central America is the San Blas Islands in Panama. This hidden gem is often overlooked by travelers due to its remote location. There are actually 365 islands in San Blas, but only a few are inhabited. 

Visiting San Blas Islands is coordinated through the indigenous Kuna people. The Kuna Yala region is an autonomous region in Panama, meaning you need your passport to enter. Most people get transportation from Panama City to San Blas via car then boat, others prefer to fly into one of the smaller airports, and some can charter a Catamaran boat to get around the islands. Be sure to book with a company that is familiar with the Kuna region. 

Enjoy the incredible beach sunsets from an over the sea bungalow.

The Kuna people are your hosts and are very friendly. They will take you to other islands for a few hours to snorkel or relax on the beach. While you’re relaxing, the staff is catching dinner (unless you have dietary restrictions). Sitting on your deck eating fresh seafood while the sunsets over the water is an incredible way to spend your vacation. 

The San Blas Islands are a magical destination in Central America that are overlooked by travelers.

Where to Stay on San Blas Islands:

• This over-the-ocean bungalow makes for a dreamy and unforgettable stay.
• For more places to stay on San Blas Islands, check out Expedia.ca , Booking.com , or VRBO .

Chichicastenango

Recommended by Carley Rojas Avila from Home to Havana

A small but vibrant town located in the Guatemalan highlands is Chichicastenango. It is best known for having one of the  best markets in Latin America . On market days, the town comes alive with activity and the streets swell with vendors selling everything from flowers and fresh foods to intricately woven Guatemalan textiles made into traditional clothing, wood carvings, leather, and much more.

An excursion to Chichicastenango during the market day is not only a fantastic way to visit this incredible and varied market but a great way to experience and learn more about Mayan culture as well. Make sure to visit Santo Tomás church , built by the Spanish on top of a sacred Mayan site. The stairs climbing to the church are still used by priests for ceremonies. Here, you’ll find vendors selling flowers and incense for similar rituals. Chichicastenango is also one of the best places in the country to learn about traditional Mayan clothing and weaving methods and how they vary from different areas of the country.

Many choose to make a trip to Chichicastenango a day trip as part of a longer stay by nearby Lake Atitlan. It is one of the most scenic areas of the Guatemalan highlands where volcanos spring up in the distance and small towns surrounding the lake. If you’re visiting Lake Atitlan, make sure to explore at least a few towns and take the water taxi across the lake. 

Where to Stay in Chichicastenango:

• Hotel Museo Mayan Inn is a charming stay located near the market area.
• For a budget-friendly stay, Hotel Chalet is a good choice.
• For more places to stay in Chichicastenango, check out Expedia.ca , Booking.com , or VRBO .

Recommended by Marquita of Marquita’s Travels

If you’re a lover of beautiful views, volcanoes, colorful architecture, or cobblestone streets, Antigua, Guatemala is one of the best places to visit in Central America

With three volcanoes visible from basically any location in the city, it makes the perfect backdrop for any occasion- from a restaurant’s deck to your hotel balcony. To get an up-close and personal volcano experience, be sure to do one of the volcano hiking tours. The Pacaya volcano is the easiest to hike. In fact, there is an option to “hike” on horseback. If a more strenuous hike is more of your pace, then Acatango and Fuego are great options- both of which offer overnight tours.

Similarly, Hobbitenango, a twenty-minute drive from Antigua, offers the perfect backdrop for a fun-filled day. Set within a stunning, uninterrupted view of the volcanoes surrounding Antigua, visiting Hobbitenango is a must.  From restaurants to hiking trails, to a local artisan market and a hotel, there is something for everyone. While there, it’s basically obligatory to take a picture at the infamous “Mano Gigante” which offers an incredible, picture-worthy backdrop.

Antigua, the city itself, is filled with charm. The beautiful, colorful architecture and the cobblestone streets immediately warm your heart with their allure. Walking around from block to block is an activity all within itself. Be sure to visit Plaza Central Park and Arco de Santa Catalina to experience the full allure of the city.  Honestly, if you’re looking for a vibrant city with various once-in-a-lifetime experiences, Antigua, Guatemala is one of the best places in Central America. 

Where to Stay in Antigua:

• For a stay in a charming colonial house, this vacation rental is a great choice.
• Hotel Museo Spa Casa Santo Domingo boasts a luxurious 5-star stay with a stunning pool.
• For more places to stay in Antigua, check out Expedia.ca , Booking.com , or VRBO .

Recommended by Chantelle of Flannels or Flip Flops

Roatan is a small island about 40 miles from the Northern Coast of Honduras.  This small island is just under 50 miles long and 5 miles wide at its largest point, but don’t let that fool you, Roatan is jam-packed with amazing things to do! 

If you love being in or around gorgeous Caribbean waters, you are especially going to love Roatan.  The Mesoamerican Barrier Reef is the 2nd largest barrier reef in the world and is located right off the coast of Roatan.  This provides incredible opportunities for world-class snorkeling and scuba diving.  The water is warm and clear and excellent for relaxing and swimming as well.  

The interior of Roatan is rainforest and jungle, and is so pretty! There is so much to do even if you don’t want to spend your day in the water.  The animal life here is varied and plentiful.  You can see exotic birds everywhere you go. One of the most fun things to do on  Roatan is to hold sloths and play with monkeys .  If you are feeling adventurous you can zipline over the canopy of the rain forest.  

You’ll love the culture of Roatan.  The population there is a great mix of people from all over that have combined ideas, food, and cultures to create a unique and super fun vibe on the island.  

Roatan is becoming a very popular cruise port, with ships docking at Mahogany Bay.  It is a beautiful area but is owned by cruise corporations.  For a more “real” taste of Roatan, I highly suggest leaving this area and exploring Coxen Hole, Little French Key, or West Bay. 

Where to Stay in Roatan:

• This secluded beachfront villa will surely leave you speechless with the views of the water!
• Bananarama Dive & Beach Resort is a great beachfront option with a dive center located right in the hotel.
• For more places to stay in Roatan, check out Expedia.ca , Booking.com , or VRBO .

Corn Islands

Corn Islands is a lesser-known Caribbean escape that feels like a private island adventure. The two islands, Big Corn and Little Corn, boast a paradise with turquoise-coloured waters and perfect beaches. With the incredible weather and sunshine, you’ll be spending all day outside wandering around the island’s perimeter. The perimeter is lined with beaches and you’ll encounter incredible views everywhere you turn.

While there are plenty of reasons to visit Corn Islands , it is a very popular destination for scuba diving in Nicaragua . There are plenty of dive shops that offer training courses and dives for those who are more advanced.

Where to Stay on Corn Islands:

• For a gorgeous stay right on the water, check out Hotel Casa Canada . There’s also an amazing pool!
• Arenas Beach Hotel boasts a luxurious stay and is located right on the beach.
• For more places to stay on Corn Islands, check out Expedia.ca , Bo oking.com , or VRBO .

San Juan del Sur

The fun beach town of San Juan del Sur is the party capital of Nicaragua and is one of the top places to visit in Central America. Every Sunday, the crazy and legendary “Sunday Funday” party occurs. This is a pool party pub crawl that attracts visitors from all over the world! There’s something about the beautiful weather and beaches that make San Juan del Sur a hot spot for people wanting to visit a party city in Central America.

There’s plenty of beaches to visit as well, where you can learn how to surf or paddleboard! The fun and colourful town is filled with great food and friendly locals, really making it one of the best places to visit in Central America!

Where to Stay in San Juan del Sur:

• For a top-rated stay with gorgeous tropical-style rooms, be sure to check out Selina Maderas .
• TreeCasa Resort has one of the most incredible pools I’ve seen in the area and boasts tropical vibes.
• For more places to stay in San Juan del Sur, check out Expedia.ca , Booking.com , or VRBO .

The second-largest city in Nicaragua, Leon, is home to beautiful architecture and is a hub for many different excursions. It is definitely one of the best places to visit in Central America in terms of cities! While wandering the streets, you can admire stunning street art and you’ll find many great restaurants. The main square is exciting to visit with locals selling goods and snacks, all surrounding the largest cathedral in Central America.

From the city, you can head out on many different adventures. One of the most popular is booking a  volcano boarding adventure  on Cerro Negro. On a day trip to the volcano, you will suit up in bright jumpsuits, hike up an active volcano, then toboggan down on a wooden board! It’s definitely a unique experience and one of my favourite stories I tell to date about my trip to Nicaragua.

Where to Stay in Leon:

• If you’re looking for a charming boutique hotel, Hotel Flor De Sarta is sure to please.
• Hostal Lazybones is a top-rated and affordable place to stay in the city for those looking to make new friends!
• For more places to stay in Léon, check out Expedia.ca , Booking.com , or VRBO .

Ometepe Island

Ometepe Island is located in the stunning Lake Nicaragua and accessible via ferry. The Island boasts two volcanoes at the ends of the island, joined together by a narrow strip of land. Tourists typically rent a scooter and drive around the rocky dirt roads. But beware – the roads are certainly bumpy and many visitors fall off their scooters and scrape up their legs!

It is a great place to rent a canoe or kayak and float around the water. It is a calm destination in Nicaragua that offers plenty of hikes to volcanoes, waterfalls, and restaurants to discover.

Where to Stay on Ometepe Island:

• If you’re looking for a place with a private beach and views of the volcanoes, check out Hotel San Juan Ometepe .
• Xalli Beach Hotel is located right on the beach and has plenty of hammocks to relax in!
• For more places to stay on Ometepe Island, check out Expedia.ca , Bo oking.com , or VRBO .

Playa Conchal

Recommended by Kelly of Jersey Globetrotter

Playa Conchal is a small, secluded beach town in the Guanacaste province of Costa Rica. Many visitors come here to see shell beach which is named after the uncommon phenomenon that occurs, where shell fragments wash up on a small section of Playa Conchal during high tide.

There are two luxurious resorts, the Westin and W Hotel, located directly on the beach, and locally owned hotels nearby.  Accessing this beach from neighboring towns or other sections of Playa Conchal is a little trickier. You will need to park in the neighboring town of Brasilito and take a fifteen-minute walk over to Playa Conchal. It’s worth the hike!

Playa Conchal is quieter than surrounding towns but it’s in a fantastic central location with the main hub of Tamarindo. Here, there are restaurants, nightlife, and shops just a short, twenty-minute drive away. Conveniently, the Liberia Airport is a little less than an hour away as well, making Playa Conchal a great place to visit on your trip to Costa Rica .

Playa Conchal consistently has great water conditions and a beautiful reef for snorkeling. Many snorkeling spots in Costa Rica are not easily accessible or don’t have great visibility. If you would prefer to just relax on the water, there are several catamaran cruises in the area. These cruises are a great way to see the beautiful landscape of Costa Rica while lounging with a drink and some music.

For adrenaline-filled tours, I highly recommend an ATV or jet ski tour. On the jet ski tour , your guides will take you along popular beaches in the area. Most tours will even take you to a secluded beach to hang out, take pictures, or snorkel. ATV tours are a great way to see nearby beaches, towns and explore the back roads and trails. You may need to go through some deep water so make sure you wear shoes that are easy to clean.

Where to Stay in Playa Conchal:

• If you’re looking for an all-inclusive stay, check out Westin Reserva Conchal .
• The W Costa Rica Resort boasts two stunning pools and a buffet breakfast.
• For more places to stay in Playa Conchal, check out Expedia.ca , Booking.com , or VRBO .

Manuel Antonio National Park

Recommended by Veronika of Travel Geekery

Manuel Antonio National Park belongs to the  most beautiful places to visit in Costa Rica  and in the whole of Central America. The national park is located near the city of Quepos in Puntarenas province. 

While this national park is officially the smallest in Costa Rica, it’s one of the most popular ones. On a relatively small area, you can admire the lush beauty of the tropical forest, stunning beaches, and plenty of wildlife.

You can hike on the numerous hiking trails leading to several viewpoints. If you get especially lucky, you might see a dolphin or two or even migrating whales!

Once done with hiking, beach time is more than proper. There are a few beaches to enjoy with calm refreshing waters and areas to chill:

• Manuel Antonio Beach
• Playa Espadilla Sur
• Playa Gemelas

Animals that you can spot in Manuel Antonio NP include the unique squirrel monkey, capuchin monkey, howler monkey, both types of sloth, iguana, coati, raccoon, and various types of colorful birds. 

Manuel Antonio National Park is popular among locals too. It gets especially busy on the weekends when families come to enjoy the beaches.

Where to Stay near Manuel Antonio NP:

• Parador Resort and Spa is a popular place to stay near the beach.
• Another popular stay with a pool is Waterfront Hotel Verde Mar .
• For more places to stay near Manuel Antonio NP, check out Expedia.ca , Booking.com , or VRBO .

Osa Peninsula

Recommended by Lori of Travlinmad.com

Costa Rica still remains one of the most popular eco destinations in the world for nature lovers. One of the best places to explore is the 700 square miles of the lush Osa Peninsula on the country’s southwest Pacific coast.

Once dubbed the “most biologically diverse place on Earth” by National Geographic, the Osa is the best place to see  monkeys in Costa Rica , and other wildlife like scarlet macaws and humpback whales in their natural habitat. Surfers love Matapalo on the southernmost point of the peninsula for its excellent surf break. Divers and snorkelers should head to Caño Island Biological Marine Reserve just off the northwest corner of the Osa. It is home to manta rays, sea turtles, white sharks, Moorish idols, and other incredible underwater creatures. To explore the best of Osa’s natural world, a hike through Corcovado National Park is a must. Here, there is an abundance of native species present.

For accommodations, hotels and lodges in Costa Rica range from hostel to luxury. Any visit to the Osa demands a stay in a jungle lodge cabana. Bosque del Cabo is one of the best, with over 700 acres of the dense jungle overlooking the cliffs around Matapalo.

Wherever you go, the Osa Peninsula is the perfect place to experience Costa Rica

Where to Stay near Osa Peninsula:

• Corcovado Osa Peninsula Tree House is a unique accommodation to stay at and really is a treehouse!
• If you’re looking for a waterfront stay with gorgeous views, check out Cabinas Jimenez .
• For more places to stay near Osa Peninsula, check out Expedia.ca , Booking.com , or VRBO .

Recommended by Pubali and Indranil of Paradise Catchers

With its excellent tourism infrastructure, Costa Rica is a preferred holiday destination for many. The town of La Fortuna is not only a must visit destination in Costa Rica, but is also one of the best places to visit in Central America.

Located in the northern plains of Costa Rica, La Fortuna is a small town offering plenty of things to do. It is a nature lover’s delight as one can choose from several nature and adventure activities. However, the standing out feature of La Fortuna town is the view of the mighty Arenal Volcano, visible from almost any part of the town.

Some of the top activities of La Fortuna include hiking on the trails around Arenal Volcano, visiting the La Fortuna waterfall, relaxing in the natural hot springs, ziplining, bird watching, and wildlife spotting. You can hike in Arenal Volcano National Park or Arenal 1968 for closer views of lava trails and the volcano itself. There are several hot springs to fit different types of budget, some of the popular ones being Tabacon, Baldi, and Ecotermales. You can book a guided tour at Bogarin Trail for almost guaranteed sloth sightings and excellent bird-watching opportunities. Also, explore the hanging bridges of Mistico Park or Sky Adventures for aerial views of the rainforests. The amazing  sky blue colored Rio Celeste waterfall  is just an hour’s drive from La Fortuna.

With the diversity of activities in the area, La Fortuna is great for a romantic holiday, a family vacation with kids, or for solo travelers. It is also easy to reach as the town is located about 83 miles away from Liberia airport and around 71 miles from San Jose airport.

Where to Stay in La Fortuna:

• Selina La Fortuna is a popular stay in the area, with a nice pool and a restaurant on site.
• For a luxurious stay, check out Hotel Los Lagos Spa & Resort .
• For more places to stay in La Fortuna, check out Expedia.ca , Booking.com , or VRBO .

Rio Pacuare

If you’re an adventure and nature lover, Rio Pacuare is a great place to visit. The river is over 100km long and flows through dense rainforest. The lush rainforest is filled with animals and you’re bound to see a few while visiting the area.

The river is a popular place to go whitewater rafting in Costa Rica , boasting various classes of rapids to adventure along. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced rafter, it makes for an exciting adventure and memories.

The famous and award-winning Tropical Rivers Lodge is located along the river. Here, there are plenty of dreamy cabins in the rainforest to stay in. Along with rafting, there are plenty of hiking trails and waterfalls to explore!

Where to Stay near Rio Pacuare:

• Pacuare Lodge is a unique accommodation that is only accessible by raft.
• For more places to stay near Rio Pacuare, check out Expedia.ca , Booking.com , or VRBO .

El Salvador

Ruta de las flores.

Recommended by Joanna of The World in my Pocket

El Salvador is a beautiful, underrated country in Central America. It is often overlooked by its more famous neighbours like Guatemala or Belize. One of the  reasons to visit El Salvador  is Ruta de las Flores. It is a gorgeous road trip which you can do in one or more days, starting in Ahuachapan.

Ruta de la Flores is a 20 miles long mountain road that passes through five colonial villages. Each one is more beautiful than another. The road is called “Ruta de la Flores” because of the gorgeous yellow flowers flanking both sides of it.

The villages along the route are: Salcoatitán, Nahuizalco, Juayúa, Apaneca and Concepción de Ataco. Each of them is known for something else. Ataco is famous for its coffee. Here you can taste the famous local high-quality Pacamara coffee. In Juayúa you can take part in the local food festival and enjoy traditional dishes like pupusas or tamales. If you are looking for some handmade souvenirs, you will find the most beautiful handicrafts in Apaneca. Nahuizalco is known for the wicker and tule handicrafts. Salcoatitán is home to a peculiar museum dedicated to germinal printing, showing the evolution of the graphic arts in the country.

All five villages have their houses decorated with beautiful murals. There are no dull buildings along Ruta de las Flores. Visiting the five villages is like stepping into an explosion of colour.

Where to Stay along Ruta de la Flores:

• La Cabaña de Fer is a stunning lodge, conveniently located near Juayúa.
• If you’re looking for a budget-friendly stay, Jardin Hostal in Apaneca is a good choice.
• For more places to stay along Ruta de la Flores, check out Expedia.ca , Booking.com , or VRBO .

Recommended by Aimee Stephens of Snap Happy Travel

El Tunco is a small beach town close to the capital San Salvador. It’s just an hour’s drive from San Salvador to El Tunco and both shuttle and public buses here are very frequent.  

One of the best  things to do in El Salvador  is to go surfing at El Tunco beach.  The town is extremely popular with surfers from all over the world. There are Surf Schools in El Tunco for learning but beware the surf here can be very intense with huge waves! 

El Sunzal is another lovely beach under 1km away and is again great for surfing. If you want to try yoga in El Tunco – Balance Yoga Retreat is a great option. 

Most of the hostels and restaurants line the black sandy beach. Some of the best restaurants here include Coyote Restaurant and Day Cafe & Salad Bar . And if you want to try the best pupusas (a national dish similar to a flatbread that is filled with cheese and other flavors) in El Salvador – then, head to the church past Tunco Lodge where the nuns make them fresh in front of you. 

Worth noting is that on the weekend, El Tunco comes alive – San Salvador’s richest come to town to party. So, it’s a great town to socialize with locals and have some fun. 

Where to Stay in El Tunco:

• For a budget-friendly stay, check out Hotel Tunco Lodge .
• If you want to stay in the capital, Barceló San Salvador is a popular place to stay.
• For more places to stay in El Tunco, check out Expedia.ca , Booking.com , or VRBO .

San Ignacio

Recommended by Melissa of Parenthood and Passports

Located in far western Belize near the Guatemala border, the town of San Ignacio is a popular base for adventure-seekers. Surrounded by a dense jungle filled with caves, waterfalls, and Mayan ruins, San Ignacio offers visitors a variety of activities within a short driving distance. Although it is the second largest town in Belize, the town which is situated on the Macal River is home to less than 25,000 people. 

But the small town has plenty of hotels, jungle lodges, and hostels to accommodate tourists who come to the town to explore the surrounding area known as the Cayo District. Just outside of San Ignacio, you’ll find the Mountain Pine Ridge Reserve. The nature reserve spans more than 100,000 acres. The reserve boasts the tallest waterfall in Central America plus Rio Frio Cave, a picturesque cave with the largest entrance of any cave in the country. 

Within the town itself, you’ll find lots of things to do in San Ignacio, Belize . Each weekend, there is a thriving local market that draws tourists and locals alike. And during the week, spend an afternoon roaming the streets and perusing through the various shops for handcrafted goods and souvenirs, before finding a restaurant and enjoying some authentic Belizean cuisine. San Ignacio doesn’t have a single chain restaurant. Instead, you’ll find small, locally-owned restaurants that make traditional Belizean fare from scratch each day. 

Where to Stay in San Ignacio:

• This hilltop vacation rental boasts stunning views and makes for a great relaxing stay.
• Vanilla Hills Lodge is a popular stay and offers accommodations in stunning cabins in the forest.
• For more places to stay in San Ignacio, check out Expedia.ca , Booking.com , or VRBO .

Caye Caulker

Recommended by Daniel and Ilona of Top Travel Sights

If you’re looking for one of the best laid-back places to visit in Central America, Caye Caulker is perfect. It’s a Caribbean island just off the coast of Belize, and it’s an excellent destination for anyone who wants to relax for a few days or explore the Great Belize Barrier Reef.

Getting to Caye Caulker  is easy, as the ferry ride only takes 45 minutes. Once you’ve arrived, take some time to stroll across the island. Caye Caulker is small enough to explore it on foot, and in the colourful houses, you can discover smoothie bars, cafes, and restaurants serving you fresh seafood.

Caye Caulker doesn’t have many beaches, but that doesn’t matter much. Head to The Split, the place where a hurricane cut the island in two. Here, you’ll find a bar with lots of chairs and sun umbrellas in the water. It’s the perfect place to splash in the Caribbean and relax while enjoying your drink.

If you prefer a white sand beach, you can take the shuttle boat to Koko King on the Northern Island. It’s the perfect location to spend a whole day on the beach doing nothing.

Caye Caulker is also the perfect base for exploring the Great Belize Barrier Reef. You can either join a snorkeling tour or explore the underwater world while scuba diving. Both options are fantastic and will allow you to see lots of colourful fish and even sharks if you’re lucky.

If you have a diving certification, you can also consider diving the Great Blue Hole of Belize. It doesn’t take long to get here from Caye Caulker, and it’s an opportunity to explore one of the most unique dive spots in the world.

Where to Stay in Caye Caulker:

• This charming vacation rental is stocked with paddleboards and has beach access!
• Weezie’s Ocean Front Hotel and Garden Cottages boasts stunning views of the water and a secluded pool.
• For more places to stay in Caye Caulker, check out Expedia.ca , Booking.com , or VRBO .

Best Places to Visit in Central America: Summary

Aren’t there so many amazing places to visit in Central America? Thanks to my fellow travel bloggers, I’ve certainly added a few more places to my bucket list! I hope reading about these stunning places will inspire you to do the same.

Read more: Best Places to Visit in South America

What are your top places to visit in Central America? Let me know in the comments!

Be sure to Pin this post for later!

If you like these places to visit in Central America, you will also like:

• White Water Rafting on Rio Pacuare, Costa Rica
• Best Places to Visit in Nicaragua
• Ultimate Nicaragua Bucket List
• One-Day Stopover in Panama City

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Wow there are so many beautiful places to visit in Central America! I can’t wait to be able to fly to this part of the world and explore. Thanks for the tips!

Kritika Panse

What beautiful places waiting to be explored! I would like to visit all of the places mentioned here but Chichicastenango and Osa Peninsula are definitely on my bucket list.

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Efficient Central America Itinerary (8 Countries, 1-3 Months)

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We compiled a comprehensive backpacking Central America route – 8 countries, 1-3 months, 28 stops, no flying (just public transport).

In 2022, we spent 6 months backpacking in Central America. Here is our ultimate Central America backpacking itinerary.

Backpacking Route Central America

Itinerary for central america, 12 days backpacking in mexico, 11 days backpacking in belize, 15 days backpacking in guatemala, 7 days backpacking in el salvador, 8 days backpacking in honduras, 13 days backpacking in nicaragua, 12 days backpacking in costa rica, 12 days backpacking in panama, number of countries.

We visit 8 countries in our itinerary:

• El Salvador

Best Time for Backpacking in Central America

The dry season is from December to April. We travelled from January to June and must say that the months of the wet season are quite humid and rainy and definitely not our favourite weather-wise.

How Much Does it Cost to Backpack Central America?

We paid 40$ to 70$ per person and day.

Travelling Around Central America

You don’t have to take a single flight. You can easily travel around by bus, tuk-tuk, or minivan. Tourist transfers are mostly a convenient option. Islands are connected by boats.

How Long do you Need in Central America?

If you want to see everything (or at least most of it), we recommend at least 3 Months or 90 days. This means around 28 stops and 3 days per stop on average.

We have also created a 1 and 2 months itinerary in case you have a shorter time limit.

Best Places to Slow the Itinerary Down

• Tulum (Mexico)
• Hopkins (Belize)
• Lake Atitlan (Guatemala)
• El Tunco (El Salvador)
• Utila (Honduras)
• Ometepe (Nicaragua)
• Bocas del Toro (Panama)

Central America Itineraries (1,2, and 3 months)

Our suggested Central America travel route for 1, 2, or 3 months.

For time reasons, we concentrate on the Yucatan peninsular of Mexico. If you have more time, you can (and should) start in Mexico City and also visit Oaxaca, Puerto Escondido, and Palenque.

Mexico Overview

Mexico public transport.

We love public transport in Mexico. The offer ranges from super comfortable ADO buses which you can book online and are safe and comfortable enough to take overnight to super cheap and local colectivos (shared taxis).

You can go literally everywhere in Mexico by public transport – be it from one town to another or from your hotel to your next sight. All of the destinations on our suggested Mexico itinerary are connected by ADO bus. You can easily reach sights like Chichen Itza or the cenotes by colectivo.

Mexico Average Coast

We paid 40$ per person per day on average.

Mexico Highlights

The highlights of your time in Mexico will be:

• Chichen Itza Mayan ruins.
• Beautiful Caribbean beaches.
• Cenotes, water-filled caves you can swim in.

Mexico itinerary

More Mexico resources:

Come for Caye Caulker, stay for the rest.

Belize Overview

Belize public transport.

Travelling Belize by public bus is easy and reliable. Normally, you can just jump on the bus and buy your ticket. It should cost you around 4 and 6 BZD. There are well-established north-south and east-west routes connecting the country which are connected in the capital Belmopan. If you don’t want to get off at the major bus stations, you can just tell the conductor where to stop.

Belize Average Coast

We paid 55$ per person per day on average.

Belize Highlights

The highlights of your time in Belize will be:

• Caribbean island vibes.
• Off-the-beaten-track Mayan ruins.

Mexico - Belize Border

The easiest way is to take an ADO bus across the border.

Belize Itinerary

More Belize resources:

Belize Backpacking – Belize 2 Week Itinerary (2024)

Our itinerary for Belize features Orange Walk Town, Caye Caulker, Hopkins, Dangriga, Tobacco Caye, and San Ignacio. This Backpacking in Belize guide includes the highlights and hidden gems: from the beaches of the atolls in Belize to the waterfalls and caves of the mainland.

Backpacking Guatemala and Belize – 14 Day Itinerary with Map (2023)

2 countries, 1 trip. Spend 10 days backpacking Guatemala and 4 days backpacking Belize on this roundtrip. See the highlights of both countries like the Acatenango volcano, Tikal, and Lake Atitlan in Guatemala as well as the ATM Cave and the Caribbean beaches of Belize.

Travel Guides

Where to Stay in Belize on a Budget PERSONAL RECOMMENDATIONS ONLY!

Best places to stay in Belize on a budget in Hopkins, San Ignacio, Caye Caulker, Orange Walk Town, and Dangriga. All the cheap Belize places we personally stayed at!

Guatemala Overview

Guatemala public transport.

To be honest, we did not hear good things about public transport in Guatemala. Other travellers told us they got robbed. Others mentioned that they had to change buses a lot – and without any English information.

That’s why we opted for tourist shuttles all the time. It raised our costs quite a bit but they were always punctual, safe, and reliable. You can buy tickets from every travel agency – and you will find plenty of them in tourist destinations.

Guatemala Average Coast

We paid 50$ per person per day on average.

Guatemala Highlights

The highlights of your time in Guatemala will be:

• Hiking Acatenango Volcano.
• Tikal Mayan ruins.
• Semuc Champey waterfall.
• Lake Atitlan.

Belize - Guatemala Border

You can take a quick and easy taxi to the Guatemala border. After you crossed, take a shared direct minivan to Santa Elena. Here, you change into a tuk-tuk to Flores.

Guatemala Itinerary

Don’t skip El Salvador! It’s super easy to incorporate into your itinerary!

El Salvador Overview

El salvador public transport.

To be honest, we were shocked at first when we realised that we could not book any tourist shuttles in El Salvador. Here’s the reason why:

The public transport in El Salvador is amazing. In fact, it was our favourite public transport in the whole of Central America. Buses come super often and you can just flag them down on the side of the road – no bus stop needed. The prices are super low – we never paid more than 1$ – and they are signposted in the driver's cabin to prevent scams. You can do the entire Ruta de las Flores with public transport – no tour needed.

El Salvador Average Coast

We paid 40$ per person per day on average. Mostly because of the cheap public transport.

El Salvador Highlights

The highlights of your time in El Salvador will be:

• Surfing in El Tunco.
• Santa Ana Volcano.
• Salto Malacatiupan hot waterfall.

Guatemala - El Salvador Border

Shuttle buses from Antigua to various destinations in El Salvador leave regularly.

El Salvador Itinerary

More El Salvador resources:

EASY 1 week El Salvador itinerary - Why you should not skip it!

There are a lot of beautiful places in El Salvador so you should definitely include it in your Central America itinerary. Backpacking El Salvador rewards you with lovely people and good infrastructure. From the beaches of El Tunco to the volcano in Santa Ana and the mountain villages of the Ruta de las Flores - we show you the best places to visit in El Salvador.

Although Honduras was our least favourite country in Central America, we have still compiled three must-see places for you.

Honduras Overview

Honduras public transport.

Honestly, both public transport and tourist shuttles are horrible in this country. If you want to go to Utila and want to avoid spending a night in La Ceiba (which is not really recommended), you cannot avoid taking a shuttle.

Because of a rather mediocre experience, we opted for public transport afterwards which was also less than optimal. Buses do not run very frequently, it’s hard to find information (either online or from locals), and they are pretty pricey compared to what you get. On the plus side, they always brought us where we needed to go and we never felt unsafe. Except maybe for when we changed buses in Tegucigalpa and everybody told us that we should not be walking because it’s not safe.

Honduras Average Coast

We paid 65$ per person per day on average. Involving some overpaying for accommodation (when you go scuba diving, your basic accommodation will be included in the dive prize) and being scammed. In general, not the best value for money so don’t plan to stay too long.

Honduras Highlights

The highlights of your time in Honduras will be:

• Scuba diving in the Bay Islands
• Copan Mayan Ruins.
• Lago de Yojoa.

El Salvador - Honduras Border

We took a shuttle from Santa Ana to Copan which drove through Guatemala for a while. Currently, the shuttles don’t leave every day so plan in advance.

Honduras Itinerary

More Honduras resources:

Honduras Backpacking Guide and Itinerary with Map

Wondering if you should go backpacking in Honduras? We say yes, don’t skip it! We have got you covered for your backpacking trip to Honduras: This blog post will inform you how to get around Honduras, what to do in Honduras, and showcase the best Honduras backpacking routes.

Most people stick to the Pacific side of Nicaragua which is amazing. If you have more time, check out the Caribbean side as well!

Nicaragua Overview

Nicaragua public transport.

Public transport in Nicaragua was frequent and cheap enough that we never opted for a tourist shuttle although they exist. All of our suggested destinations are well connected by buses and vans. A ferry connects Ometepe to the mainland.

Nicaragua Average Coast

Nicaragua highlights.

• Cerro Negro volcano boarding.
• Ometepe island.
• Somoto Canyon.

Honduras - Nicaragua Border

In case you stick to our advice and start your Nicaragua itinerary in Somoto, you can take a bus from Tegucigalpa to Choluteca where you change into a bus to San Marcos de Colon. From here, a shared van will take you to the El Espino border. Make sure not to arrive too late because buses and taxis stop running on the Nicaraguan side.

More Nicaragua resources:

How to Travel the Caribbean Coast of Nicaragua on a Budget (2023)

If you’re backpacking Nicaragua, the Caribbean coast belongs to the best places in Nicaragua you can visit. Our complete travel guide to the Nicaragua Caribbean coast gives you travel tips for the best beaches, the best places, and the best Caribbean islands in Nicaragua - all on a budget and mostly with public transport.

The wildlife here is out of this world!

Costa Rica Overview

Costa rica public transport.

We took buses around Costa Rica because the shuttles were crazy expensive compared to other Central American countries. We have met travellers who experienced theft on the buses so always keep an eye on your belongings.

Costa Rica Average Coast

We paid 50$ per person per day on average. Although everybody always says that Costa Rica is expensive, it was by no means our most expensive country on this trip.

Costa Rica Highlights

The highlights of your time in Costa Rica will be:

• The wildlife (sloths, dolphins, tapirs, toucans,…)!

Nicaragua - Costa Rica Border

Bus companies like Trans Nice or Nica Bus conveniently cross the border.

Costa Rica Itinerary

More Costa Rica resources:

Travel Planing

11 Best Hostels in Costa Rica (real travellers recommend)

Backpacking Costa Rica and looking for a hostel? Real travellers share the best hostel Costa Rica has to offer in their opinion.

Travel Ideas

Costa Rica, Drake Bay – Travel the Osa Peninsula Without a 4x4 Car (2023)

Drake Bay in Costa Rica is a great addition to your Costa Rica road trip. Its situation on the Osa Peninsula in Costa Rica makes it the perfect starting point to visit the Corcovado National Park and Cano Island - two natural paradises above and below water. And the best? As of 2022, you can reach it with a regular car!

Nightlife and beaches? Yes, please!

Panama Overview

Panama public transport.

We took a combination of public transport and tourist shuttles depending on the length of the trip. They both worked fine. San Blas is easiest visited on a guided tour.

Panama Average Coast

We paid 70$ per person per day on average. Our highest daily cost in Central America.

Panama Highlights

The highlights of your time in Panama will be:

• San Blas islands.
• Boas del Toro.
• Panama City.

Costa Rica - Panama Border

We booked a transfer from Limon to Bocas del Toro which was super convenient and did not even cost more than public transport.

Panama Itinerary

More Panama resources:

San Blas vs Bocas del Toro – Which Panama Islands Should You Visit?

Should you visit the Bocas del Toro or San Blas Islands in Panama? Including a complete travel guide for Bocas del Toro and San Blas.

Complete Panama itinerary - 14 - 21 days, 5 - 8 stops

Most Panama itineraries that you find online will only include the Panama highlights like Bocas del Toro, San Blas, Panama City, or Boquete. In our Panama itinerary, we feature some off-the-beaten path destinations like Boca Chica, Santa Catalina or Valle de Anton to include in your Panama backpacking trip.

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Welcome to the official website of Central America

Central America is a wonderful natural bridge that connects North America with South America and is made up of 7 countries: Belize, Honduras, Guatemala, Nicaragua, El Salvador, Costa Rica and Panamá.

The Dominican Republic has joined as a complementary ally for the promotion of tourism in this region, adding the best of both worlds to attract international travelers.

This isthmus emerged from the seas millions of years ago to become a genuine tropical sanctuary, surrounded by the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. It is home to 12% of the planet’s biodiversity, and is the second most important bird watching area in the western hemisphere, and is part of the second largest coral reef in the world.

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UPROXX’s Best Place To Solo Travel For Beginners: Belize

You know those moments in nature that leave you wondering, “how is this even real life?” Those time-stopping experiences where you’re just utterly present to the miracle of being alive? Yeah, that’s the sensation travelers live for. It’s not that you can’t feel that in your hometown, it’s just that it’s a feeling that is a lot easier to come by when you’re out of your comfort zone.

And in our experience, those “pinch me” moments happen even more frequently during solo travel abroad. If you’ve never ventured out of the U.S. alone and are itching to embark on your first solo-travel adventure, especially one that’s budget friendly , consider traveling to Uproxx’s favorite Central America destination for solo travel beginners: Belize!

Why Belize is Perfect for Beginner Solo Travelers

Location, Location, Location

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Melanie ✢ Travel & Wellbeing (@livinginflowco)

Belize is the northernmost country of Central America, anywhere from only two, to a quick six hours by plane from the U.S. Truly, it’s a cinch to get to Belize. In fact, United Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Airlines, Alaska Airlines, Southwest Airlines, Jet Blue, and Frontier Airlines all fly direct to Belize’s International Airport (Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport). And land borders connecting to Guatemala and Mexico make Belize the “gateway country” for the Central America backpacking route.

But you might want to stay a while before heading elsewhere. Here’s why.

Activities and Culture

Belize is high key an adventure traveler’s dream, and one of Central America’s most culturally and ethnically diverse countries. Despite being really small, like the size of Vermont, there’s so much to do here. And because it’s so compact, you can explore more of the country with ease!

Stay on Caye Caulker or in San Pedro (Ambergris Caye’s party town) to snorkel and scuba dive Belize’s Great Barrier Reef one day, then climb moss-covered Mayan ruins and spelunk caves around the jungle town of San Ignacio the next (don’t miss the ATM cave tour !). Try a Mayan chocolate-making tour in San Ignacio and learn Garifuna traditional drum and dance in Hopkins.

There are many hostels around the country, so you won’t have trouble making friends to have fun with! If you’re into waterfall hikes, I recommend Mayflower Bocawina National Park, and if you’re going to rent a car in San Ignacio with friends (worth it!) stop at Rio on Pools for the afternoon.

Less Language Barriers

Belize was the first country I visited on my solo backpacking journey that began two years ago (it hasn’t really stopped, I just have suitcases now). One of the main reasons I chose Belize to start my travels in is because the official language is actually English!

It wasn’t until I was traveling in Spanish-speaking countries that I realized how hard it is to organize basic travel and lodging and connect with others without speaking the language. Just sayin’, this is a major plus if you don’t speak Spanish.

Easy Currency Conversion Rate

Belize’s national currency is the Belizean Dollar (BZD), which is honored at $.50 to $1USD. You don’t need to change all your dollars to BZD, either, since all around the country food vendors, hotels, hostels, national parks, and transportation services will happily take your USD.

You might have heard that Belize is expensive, which I ~sort of~ disagree with, considering the prices of Costa Rica and even Nicaragua right now. You can backpack Belize cheap, staying in hostels and traveling by chicken bus, or you can stay in nicer hotels for $45+ a night for privacy, if you’re more comfortable with that. I did a mix of both!

The classic Belizean street food are fry jacks, which are sort of like a fried pancake you can get plain or stuffed with meat or veggies. My favorite was a breakfast fry jack stuffed with eggs, beans, and cheese.

Don’t sleep on Garifuna food, like Hudut (pictured above) which you can find easily in Hopkins. That coco-nutty fish stew had me in a chokehold! Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye are full of BBQ stands with fresh grilled fish and lobster for decent prices ($12~). But there’s also a number of “western” type health-food spots where you can get your smoothie bowls and other granola-people food.

Reliable Infrastructure

One of the most important factors that make a country perfect for beginner solo travel is the infrastructure. But Belize has decades of tourism experience under its belt, with tourism being a major part of its GDP.

Belize has a reliable energy grid, airports, ferries, paved roads, organized ground transportation, and comfortable accommodation and dining options. Basically, with some planning and organization, you won’t have a hard time traveling comfortably in Belize all on your own!

Getting around Central America is easy by bus, plane and boat

Mar 19, 2022 • 8 min read

So-called "chicken buses" form the backbone of bus travel in Central America © Mint Images RF / Getty Images

Spanning seven countries and countless beaches, jungles, volcanoes and lost cities, Central America is surprisingly compact. The Pan-American Highway runs for nearly 2000km (1240 miles) along this chain of Spanish-speaking countries, but the isthmus is no wider than 560km (35o miles) across at its widest point.

With enough time and patience, all seven countries can be traversed by bus, daisy-chaining from Guatemala and Belize through Honduras and El Salvador to Nicaragua , Costa Rica and Panama . With less time to spare, it's easy to pair up countries – perhaps Mayan pyramid-hopping in Guatemala combined with scuba-diving in Belize, or toucan-spotting in Costa Rica paired with cruises along Panama’s famous canal.

Here's what you need to know about getting around Central America.

The easiest and cheapest way to explore Central America is by bus

Central America has a bus for every budget and every kind of traveler. The backbone of bus travel in the region is the 'chicken bus' – these repurposed and gaudily painted North American school buses race along highways, belching black smoke and stopping in every city, town and hamlet. Buses cover fixed routes with the destination displayed on the front windscreen, and are as much a cultural experience as a way to get from A to B.

Vast numbers of minivans follow similar routes to the chicken buses, leaving when full for a slightly higher fare. Then there are tourist-orientated shuttle buses linking major hubs, such as the ones provided by Interbus in Costa Rica. In line with its famous green credentials, Costa Rica is trialing electric buses in San José , with the aim of moving the whole country to all-electric buses by 2030. Pura vida! 

For long-haul trips between major cities, there are long-distance bus lines such as Ticabus , which serves destinations across the region’s seven countries using comfortable buses equipped with toilets, air conditioning, WiFi, reclining seats, and on-board security for less stable parts of the isthmus.

Other useful lines include Trasnica , which operates in Costa Rica, Honduras, and Nicaragua, and Transporte del Sol in Guatemala, El Salvador, and Nicaragua.

Taxis are plentiful in all the major cities

Taxis are cheap and plentiful across Central America. However, tourists are often charged elevated rates, so try to use a radio taxi or official taxi, rather than flagging a cab down on the street. If the taxi has a meter, insist it’s turned on, or take a different cab. For longer journeys, you'll normally have to negotiate a price – and confirm the currency! – before you set off. Carry small bills to pay for taxi rides and grab all your baggage before you hand over any money.

To the annoyance of local taxi drivers, Uber is now available in Panama City (including Uber Assist for people with accessibility issues), Guatemala City and Antigua , San Salvador , and Costa Rica’s Central Valley , and drivers will often take you around the country from these urban hubs. Local ride-hailing app, inDriver , is available in all of the above countries, plus Honduras and Nicaragua.

Three-wheeled mototaxis – the Central American take on tuk-tuks – are becoming increasingly popular in many parts of the isthmus, with fares negotiated as for taxis.

Hiring a car is expensive, but great for exploring

Hiring a car doesn’t come cheap in Central America, but it’s a great way to get off the tourist trail and explore the isthmus at your own pace. Driving in Central America isn’t for the fainthearted – you'll face challenges ranging from bumper-to-bumper traffic in cities to rural roads crowded with cows and wildlife, and erratic drivers ignoring traffic signs everywhere.

All the major rental car companies have outlets at international airports, in capital cities, and in popular tourist destinations. Most countries allow you to drive with your home driving license, but there's no harm in carrying an International Driving Permit just in case. You'll pay a lot more to pick up a car in one place and drop it off at another location, and even higher premiums to cross international borders (if the company allows it at all).

A decent 4WD vehicle is a must if you’re going off-the-beaten-track and planning to tackle any dirt roads. Always make sure the vehicle comes with all the necessary safety equipment, including a functional spare tire, and always read the rental agreement’s small print and take out as much insurance as possible to reduce what you might have to pay in the event of an accident.

On the road, keep emergency services numbers to hand in case of breakdowns, and drive cautiously and defensively. Never leave valuables unattended in your car, and avoid driving at night. Also keep your passport, driving license and rental papers to hand in case you have any dealings with the police.

A boat journey in Central America will take you places you wouldn’t otherwise reach

Central America has two beach-sprinkled coastlines facing the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea and dozens of stunning lakes and jungle-fringed rivers. A boat can be the best – and sometimes the only – way to get from A to B.

In Nicaragua, there are regular sailings from San Jorge to the bucolic island of Ometepe on Lake Nicaragua . Boats also run from Bluefields on the Caribbean Coast to the icing sugar-soft beaches of the Corn Islands , and you can ferry-hop from La Ceiba to the underwater paradise of the Bay Islands in Honduras.

On Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast, Tortuguero can only be reached by boat or plane, with small boats chugging along the wildlife-rich canals of its namesake national park. On the Pacific Coast, a regular ferry service connects Puntarenas with Playa Naranjo and Paquera, providing easy access to the year-round surf breaks on the Nicoya Peninsula . And daily ferries operate from Golfito to Puerto Jiménez on the wild and wonderful Osa Peninsula .

In Guatemala, you can explore the myriad Mayan villages that dot the shore of Lake Atitlan by lancha (public boat); Panajachel is the main hub for ferry services. And don’t miss a trip along one of the planet’s greatest man-made marvels, the Panama Canal , squeezing along those famous locks and admiring the engineering genius of the Culebra Cut. A partial transit of the isthmus by cruise boat takes around six hours.

Let the plane take the strain

If you’re cash-rich and time-poor, flying can knock hours off many road trips, though there's an environmental impact to consider in those calculations. For example, the flight from Guatemala City to Flores – gateway to the towering temples of Tikal – takes just one hour, compared to an eight-hour journey by bus.

Panama-based Copa Airlines and Colombian flag carrier Avianca operate the majority of services on the isthmus, and both are part of Star Alliance , making for easy international transfers. Discount Mexican carrier Volaris has some very reasonable low-cost fares to Guatemala, Costa Rica, Honduras, and El Salvador.

You can also take a "puddle-jumper" – a small propeller-driven aircraft used for short local and mainland-to-island hops. You'll share the tiny open cabin space with the pilot, and you’ll often be weighed along with your baggage at check-in, so pack light.

These diminutive planes are a popular alternative to long road trips and bumpy boat rides to Central America’s fringing islands. Useful routes include Tropic Air 's service from Belize City to Caye Caulker , and La Costeña 's shuttle from Bluefields and Managua to Nicaragua’s Corn Islands.

Urban transport is easy in major cities

Trains may be scarce in Central America, but Panama City has the region’s first and only metro , linking the northern and southern reaches of the metropolitan area to the city center, with more lines under development. You’ll need to buy a rechargeable Metro, MetroBus, or RapiPass card to use the service, and these tickets also work on the city’s buses.

In Costa Rica, the Interurbano Line is a commuter train connecting the provinces of San José, Alajuela, Heredia, and Cartago in the lush Central Valley. In other major cities, downtown transport is provided by fleets of local buses, mototaxis and conventional taxis.

My favorite way to travel in Central America is by 'chicken bus'

Traveling on a chicken bus is an experience like no other. On journeys across the isthmus, I’ve shared a seat with a strident caged cockerel and been swept off the bus by the voluminous skirts of Guatemalan ladies eager to get to market.

It’s always easy to strike up a conversation with your fellow passengers – if you can hear them above the tinny music played at ear-splitting volume on the bus stereo – and a little Spanish goes a long way when it comes to breaking the ice. The buses can be cramped, hot, dusty, and sometimes downright dangerous when careering around blind corners at breakneck speed, but the experience is never dull.

Accessible travel in Central America

Central America still has a way to go before it becomes a truly accessible destination, but it’s not all bad news. Strict accessibility laws saw Costa Rica named the world's best accessible travel destination in 2021, and awareness of accessibility issues is growing around the region.

Throughout Central America, obstacles include buildings with steps, poor (or absent) sidewalks, hotels without elevators, a general absence of safe road crossings and few accessible buses or boats. In general, hiring a vehicle or using taxis is often the easiest option for those with mobility issues. For more information, see Lonely Planet's Accessible Travel Resources page .

You may also like: The 14 best beaches in Central America 15 things you absolutely must do in Central America 8 of the best places to surf in Central America for beginners to pros

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• World's Best Awards 2024

Travel + Leisure Readers' 10 Favorite Cities in Central and South America of 2024

T+L readers select their favorite cities in Central and South America in our annual "World’s Best Awards" survey for 2024.

How Voting Works

What readers loved, the full list.

The cities of Central and South America are full of food, entertainment, and historical touchstones. This year, Travel + Leisure readers found plenty of reasons to return to them again and again. Surveyed for the 2024 “World’s Best Awards,” our readers chose their top 10 cities in Central and South America for life-changing travel.

Every year for our World's Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Over 186,000 T+L readers completed the 2024 survey. A total of more than 700,000 votes were cast across over 8,700 properties (hotels, cities, cruise lines, etc.).

Cities were specifically rated on the criteria below:

• Sights/landmarks
• Friendliness

For each characteristic, respondents could choose a rating of excellent, above average, average, below average, or poor. The final scores are averages of these responses.

Stockphoto24/Getty Images

This year’s top city — Cuzco, Peru — retained its position from last year. Rising to take the No. 2 spot (it ranked No. 7 last year) was Antigua Guatemala, a city surrounded by volcanoes and known for its Baroque architecture. Panama City, Panama (No. 10) is new to this year’s list, displacing São Paulo. Brazil’s sole representation now comes in the form of the iconic Rio de Janeiro. Mendoza, Argentina, at No. 9, impressed T+L surveyors with its “great wine.”Colombia is still represented in the No. 7 and No. 8 slots: Cartagena and Bogotá, respectively. The former, one reader said, is a “melting pot of Caribbean, African, and Latin cultures.” And readers continue to recommend Quito, Ecuador (No. 3), as well as Lima, Peru (No. 4 this year, up from No. 9), as well as Buenos Aires, Argentina (No. 5, the same as last year). For more on individual rankings and for why readers chose Cuzco, Peru, as the best city in Central and South America for the World’s Best Awards, read on.

Cuzco, Peru

JeremyRichards/Getty Images

This city in the Peruvian Andes has long been a favorite for T+L readers, and it’s not hard to see why. The city itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and visitors can explore Incan temples, sample local delicacies like cuy al horno (or roast guinea pig), and locate themselves centrally for a visit to Machu Picchu . “All the best things you could imagine are in this incredible city,” one reader noted about Cuzco. “Beautiful place, a lot of history, and the food and nightlife are unique.” The city’s history and architectural charm won over many readers. It is, one wrote, a “beautiful city.” In short, as a reader summarized, Cuzco is an “amazing place to visit to go and see the wild history of the country.”

1. Cuzco, Peru

Reader Score: 87.47

2. Antigua Guatemala, Guatemala

Reader Score: 85.93

3. Quito, Ecuador

Reader Score: 84.26

4. Lima, Peru

Reader Score: 84.13

5. Buenos Aires, Argentina

Reader Score: 84.09

6. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Reader Score: 82.81

7. Cartagena, Colombia

Reader Score: 82.69

8. Bogotá, Colombia

Reader Score: 82.14

9. Mendoza, Argentina

Reader Score: 82.00

10. Panama City, Panama

Reader Score: 79.05

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CNN just named this Arizona city one of America's best towns to visit. Here's why

For many travelers, the ideal summer vacation spot offers unique character, an abundance of things to see and do, and little to no crowds.

That sentiment explains why CNN Travel compiled a new list of U.S. places where people can avoid "the elbow-to-elbow crowds of the big tourist cities." Its inaugural list of 10 cities includes one in Arizona, a popular stopover point on the way to the Grand Canyon.

CNN's list, called America's Best Towns to Visit in 2024, highlights smaller cities. Richmond, Virginia, was ranked No. 1 for its cultural and dining scenes and "intriguing" neighborhoods.

CNN's travel contributors selected the cities based on their attractions, dining, nightlife, culture, sense of identity, proximity to other interesting spots and wow factor.

New to the top 10 city for this year: a beloved restaurant chain arrived in April , and a West Coast flight from its airport is coming in the fall .

Why Flagstaff is one of CNN's America's Best Towns to Visit in 2024

Flagstaff, a northern Arizona city rich in ponderosa pine forests and overlooking the state's tallest mountain peak, is ranked No. 6 on CNN's list of America's Best Towns to Visit.

CNN's contributors gave Flagstaff high marks for its outdoor experiences, especially stargazing . They cited Flagstaff's status as an International Dark Sky City for its protection of the night sky from light pollution, as well as Lowell Observatory, the astronomy hub where Pluto was discovered in 1930.

They said the city's connection to outer space doesn't end there, with a nod to its proximity to Meteor Crater about 45 minutes east in Winslow. The natural landmark, one of The Arizona Republic's uniquely Arizona road trip destinations , preserves the site where a meteorite struck the Earth's surface about 50,000 years ago.

Flagstaff's proximity to Coconino National Forest and the San Francisco Peaks creates plentiful adventure opportunities, including skiing and snowboarding. Arizona Snowbowl at Humphreys Peak (elevation 12,633 feet), which CNN described as "ground zero for Flagstaff's winter sports scene," extended its season this year due to above-average snowfall, including its first-ever June dates .

Flagstaff is about 80 miles south of the Grand Canyon, one of America's most famous adventure spots.

Flagstaff is also a key stop on historic Route 66, where the city's historic downtown has evolved into a shopping, dining and entertainment hub.

CNN's America's Best Towns to Visit 2024

• Richmond, Virginia.
• Providence, Rhode Island.
• Tacoma, Washington.
• Portland, Maine.
• San Luis Obispo, California.
• Macon, Georgia.
• Grand Rapids, Michigan.
• Knoxville, Tennessee.
• Duluth, Minnesota.

Michael Salerno is an award-winning journalist who’s covered travel and tourism since 2014. His work as The Arizona Republic’s consumer travel reporter aims to help readers navigate the stresses of traveling and get the best value for their money on their vacations. He can be reached at  [email protected] . Follow him on X, formerly Twitter:  @salerno_phx .

Support local journalism.   Subscribe to  azcentral.com  today.

The Top 10 Best Places to Go Bird-watching in America

Plan your next vacation around these cool spots.

Country Living editors select each product featured. If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission. Why Trust Us?

Think about it: what could be better than combining your two favorite obsessions: birding and travel ? Especially when some of the world's best bird-watching can be found within America's borders, in places as pretty as northern California and coastal Maine? Best of all, the following avian hangouts are so dense in winged wonders (hellllooo Platte River Valley!) you don't need to be an expert to spot some stunning species. And some destinations, like the legendary Rio Grande Valley, are home to birds you won't find anywhere else in the nation, giving even the most experienced twitchers a chance to expand their life list (the inventory of birds a birder has spotted in their lifetime).

Many of the following vacation hotspots, which are sprinkled throughout the U.S., are best to visit in spring or fall, when long-distance migrants are moving through on their way to or from Central or South America. Some provide special birding opportunities in summer, or even winter. But all are definitely for the birds!

Acadia National Park, Maine

Thanks to an incredibly diverse landscape, ranging from wild, water-swept coastline to verdant forest and barren, rocky mountaintop, more than 300 species of birds call the nearly 50,000 acres of Acadia National Park in Maine home. That includes the 20-plus species of warblers that nest in spring and summer on Mount Desert Island, though the park is a birder's paradise in all seasons.

Popular annual avian events include the Acadia Birding Festival in early summer and autumn's Cadillac Mountain Hawk Watch, a prime time to check out the thousands of raptors that descend on the area as they head south for the winter.

Looking to spot the iconic (if slightly silly-looking) puffin? Maine is the only state to boast breeding populations of the bird, which nest on offshore islands (not technically part of the park) come warm weather. Tour boats that visit the islands leave from Bar Harbor, the gateway to Acadia, and other towns along the coast.

Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge, New Mexico

Tucked away between the Chupadera and San Pascual mountains along the Rio Grand River, Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge was created in 1939 to provide an overwintering habitat for migrating waterfowl. By November each year, the refuge's nearly 60,000 acres play host to sandhill cranes, ducks, and snow and Ross's geese numbering in the tens of thousands.

The birds' return to the refuge is celebrated annually in late fall with the Festival of the Cranes , while the springtime migration—known for visiting and nesting flycatchers, vireos, and a dozen species of warblers—gets its own special event in May. Spring is also a good time to catch sight of the legendary greater roadrunner (maybe even with a coyote in hot pursuit).

Although summer in the Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge can get as sultry as you might expect, birders who head out in the morning and evening hours may be rewarded with sightings of black-chinned, broad-tailed, calliope and rufous hummingbirds.

Plan Your Trip

Cape May, New Jersey

Named by National Geographic as one of the best places in the world to bird-watch, Cape May is blessed with a location along the Atlantic Flyway (a sort of north-south super-skyway for migrating birds), westerly winds and a range of habitats pleasing to our fine feathered friends. Thanks to these and other factors, as many as a whopping 400 species of birds visit Cape May during fall migration.

Songbirds galore like vireos, tanagers, grosbeaks, warblers, buntings, and orioles flood the peninsula in September and October, along with raptors such as falcons, hawks and eagles. Ideal viewing spots include the Higbee Beach Wildlife Management Area and Cape May Point State Park , but be sure to keep an eye for smaller flying critters. The area's famed monarch butterfly migration usually begins in late September and continues through mid-October.

Cape May Bird Observatory and New Jersey Audubon coordinate a wealth of fun events in Cape May throughout the year, from migration watches to fall and spring festivals and The World Series of Birding . Held every May, the fundraiser benefits bird conservation by challenging teams to count the most species in a 24-hour period.

Cave Creek Canyon, Arizona

Cave Creek Canyon , which sits pretty at 5,000 feet, on the eastern side of the Chiricahua Mountains, is home to the elusive elegant trogon. One of the country's most sought-after birds by hobbyists, this beautiful metallic-green and scarlet red fellow's range in the U.S. is mostly limited to southeastern Arizona. You'll find him summering here, in this stunning slice of Coronado National Forest, most likely near the south fork of Cave Creek.

Of course, as rare as the elegant trogon is, he's just one of as many as 370-some species birders may see in the canyon, including a dozen species of hummingbirds in the summertime.

Thanks in part to the area's astounding biological diversity, which ranges from desert to grassland and various types of woodlands and forests, species as varied as the Western screech owl, the sulphur-bellied flycatcher, the cactus wren, the hairy woodpecker, and the majestic golden eagle all thrive in Cave Creek Canyon.

Central Park, New York

It may seem counterintuitive to recommend a park nestled within a bustling city as a haven for birders. But Central Park , an 843-acre rectangle that dates to the mid-19th century, provides a critical pit stop for birds migrating along the Atlantic Flyway. Spring and fall are thus the peak birding seasons, with as many as 30 warbler species sometimes seen on a single day. In total, more than 280 bird species have been recorded in Central Park.

The best places for birding in the park include the 40-acre North Woods; The Ramble, featuring a leafy canopy and feeders to entice avian creatures; and The Pond. It's frequented by everything from great egrets to majestic red-tail hawks, which are year-round Big Apple residents. Peregrine falcons, another raptor favorite, also are permanent fixtures in Central Park (as are dedicated local birders, who are usually happy to point out birds to fellow enthusiasts).

Otherwise, in the wintertime keep an eye out for six species of owls, including the great-horned, barred, and northern saw-whet. Spring brings everything from cuckoos to flycatchers, kinglets and freshwater sandpipers. In fall, along with warblers, Central Park trees fill with sparrows, thrushes, and birds of prey.

Everglades National Park, Florida

The largest subtropical wilderness in the country, Everglades National Park sprawls across 1.5 million acres in southern Florida but can be easily accessed via entrances in Miami, Everglades City, and Homestead. The dry season, which lasts from December to April, is best for birding. Not only are there fewer mosquitos, but the warm winters attract the greatest variety of wading birds.

They include the wood stork—once endangered and still federally listed as threatened—the pink-plumed roseate spoonbill, the least bittern, the glossy ibis and an array of egrets and herons. Some of the other 360-some species seen in the park include the brilliant blue indigo bunting, the pleasingly acrobatic purple martin and the little yellow warbler.

There are a number of trails in Everglades National Park popular for birding, most accessible from the main entrance in Homestead, but the "River of Grass" can also be explored via everything from trams to airboats. Guided bird-watching tours are available from both park rangers and outside companies .

Magee Marsh Wildlife Area, Ohio

A refuge for 36 species of migrating warblers (including the endangered Kirtland's warbler) and more than 100 species of other songbirds, Magee Marsh Wildlife Area serves up some of the country's best birding come mid-May. In total, around 310 species of birds have been found here in spring, but the 2,200 acres of unspoiled wetlands along western Lake Erie draw plentiful species of birds in the fall, too. They include jaw-dropping numbers of waterfowl like Canada geese, mallards, green- and blue-winged teal and gadwall.

The well-maintained trails at Magee Marsh make birding here a bit less taxing than at some other avian-rich destinations. Most notably, the mile-long Magee Boardwalk offers twitchers a stellar view of neotropical migrants without having to work up a sweat. Meanwhile, birders should head to Hawkwatch Tower to see bald eagles, a wide array of hawk species, and osprey soar in the springtime.

The Biggest Week in American Birding , an annual 10-day extravaganza that takes place each May in northwest Ohio, will offer two daily guided walks at Magee Marsh, along with a wide range of other field trips, workshops, and special events.

Platte River Valley, Nebraska

Dubbed one of the planet's greatest migrations, the mind-boggling influx of one million sandhill cranes into the Platte River Valley should be on every birder's bucket list. Each year, beginning in mid-February, 80 percent of the world's population of the tall, leggy, crimson-capped wading birds descend on central Nebraska. They stay until early April, taking a well-earned breather before heading on to their breeding grounds in Alaska, Canada, and Siberia.

Among the world's oldest birds, the sandhill cranes spend their days in farm fields, chowing down on corn leftover from fall's harvest. They return to the safety of the Platte's shallow waters to roost at sunset, making dusk and dawn ideal times for crane watching. Blinds line the river; other perches include Fort Kearny Bridge in Kearney and Plautz Viewing Platform , south of Gibbon.

Or, visit Iain Nicolson Audubon Center at Rowe Sanctuary for guided sunrise and sunset crane tours. They also offer an overnight photography experience for dedicated shutterbugs who don't mind spending the night in a blind.

Point Reyes National Seashore, California

According to the folks at Point Reyes National Seashore , their piece of the Northern California coast "claims the prize for the greatest avian diversity of any national park." Nearly 490 species, or over half of all North American bird species, have been observed there. This staggering number is due to the park's more than 70,000 acres of diverse, unspoiled habitat; coastal location; advantageous latitude; and the 10-mile projection of the peninsula into the sea, which attracts "vagrants," birds that have made navigation errors during migration.

Its location on the Pacific Flyway (like the Atlantic Flyway, a major north-south skyway for migrating birds), means that fall and spring are plenty productive in Point Reyes, though the winter months offer great flocks of waterbirds thousands strong. Head to Limantour Estero or Bolinas Lagoon to catch grebes, cormorants, pelicans, kingfishers, ducks, and more, while Abbotts Lagoon is home to coots, black-shouldered kites, Caspian terns, a variety of raptors and nests of the threatened western snowy plover. (The threatened northern spotted owl also flourishes in the park.)

The park hosts several annual ornithological events throughout the year, like spring's Point Reyes Birding and Nature Festival , which boasts a wide variety of guided birding walks, and the Point Reyes Christmas Bird Count , with hundreds of volunteers tallying up the birds they observe throughout the day.

Rio Grande Valley, Texas

It's almost impossible to beat the Rio Grande Valley for birding. Some 500 species have been documented in this mostly subtropical area, which unspools across 4,200 square miles and four counties in the southernmost tip of the Lone State State. Nestled within the convergence of the Mississippi and Central flyways, this is the place to check birds off your list you won't find anywhere else in the country, including such showstoppers as the great kiskadee, the green jay and the buff-bellied hummingbird.

The World Birding Center is an invaluable resource for visitors, maintaining nine unique locations, each representing one of the valley's diverse landscapes. Depending on the facility, they offer goodies like tours and other special programming, exhibits, trails, boardwalks, observation towers, bird blinds, feeding stations, and even trams.

The birds vary by site, too, with everything from plain chachalacas and Altamira orioles sighted at Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley to endangered brown pelicans and piping plovers spotted at the South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center. Want to flock together with some birds of a feather? The Rio Grande Valley Birding Festival runs for four days in November, offering a wealth of field trips, keynote speakers, workshops and more.

Jill Gleeson is a travel journalist and memoirist based in the Appalachian Mountains of western Pennsylvania who has written for websites and publications including Good Housekeeping, Woman’s Day, Country Living, Washingtonian, Gothamist, Canadian Traveller, and EDGE Media Network. Jill is the travel editor for Enchanted Living. Learn more about her journey at gleesonreboots.com.

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